The town of Franklin is a growth community with a pro-business environment, a low stable single tax rate, ample industrial land, and a modernized infrastructure. Franklin is located at the center of the Tri-Center Cohesive Commercial Statistical Area (CCSA) which includes nine communities within commuting distance of Boston, Worcester, and Providence, R.I. Franklin enjoys excellent transportation networks with access to Rte. 140, two exits to I-495, and is easily accessible to major routes such as the Mass. Pike (I-90), Rte. 1 and I-95. In addition to this well integrated roadway system, Franklin has two MBTA commuter rail stations which run daily service to and from Boston, and will soon have fixed bus route service through the Greater Attleboro Taunton Regional Transit Authority (GATRA).
Manufacturing and retail trade are the leading industries in Franklin and are continually growing business sectors in the community. The town's two industrial parks house a substantial number and variety of businesses, including research and development and manufacturing companies. EMC, Putnam Investments, Garelick Farms and Draka USA are just a few of the nationally and regionally known firms located in Franklin.
The town of Franklin is a member of the I-495/95 South Regional Economic Target Area (ETA) and as such can offer businesses wishing to locate or expand in Franklin a local tax incentive through tax increment financing (TIF). Franklin supports the use of this local tax credit for a wide range of development projects, including those that create a significant number of livable wage jobs for Franklin residents or support innovative technology.
Even though there are many companies located within and in close proximity to the industrial parks adjacent to I-495 and along some of the town's primary roadways, Franklin is still able to maintain the quintessential New England small-town feel with its old fashioned downtown of locally owned small businesses. Recently, Family Circle named Franklin as one of their "Ten Best Towns for Families" in the United States. This honor was bestowed on Franklin and nine other towns and small cities "that offer what parents and children want most - affordable homes, good jobs, top-rated schools, open spaces and a lot less stress".
Franklin has a lot to offer. Any business looking to locate in Massachusetts should visit Franklin first to see all that this business friendly community has to offer and view the many available office, industrial, research and development and warehouse properties. If your company is looking to expand, relocate or explore tax increment financing opportunities, contact Bryan Taberner, director of planning and community development at btaberner@franklin.ma.us. The town is especially interested in attracting renewable energy companies and other emerging technologies.