Developer Breaks Ground on 180,000-Square-Foot Innovation Hub in Woburn

A new innovation, manufacturing, and research hub is under development in Woburn. Cabot, Cabot & Forbes (CC&F), one of Greater Boston's leading real estate development firms, broke ground on Wednesday, Nov. 5, on “The Bolt,” a 180,000-square-foot facility that will anchor a growing New Boston Corridor in Woburn.

According to a Boston Real Estate Times report, the project seeks to transform the Anderson Regional Transportation Center (RTC) area into a transit-oriented community and economic hub as part of a broader $400 million public-private redevelopment effort.

Completion is targeted for the second quarter of 2027, with flexible space intended for energy, manufacturing, life sciences, and technology companies. It is expected to create approximately 300 jobs.

Construction is being handled on spec by John Moriarty & Associates. Jacobs, a global architecture and engineering firm, is the designer, while Cushman & Wakefield is handling exclusive leasing. Financing includes $79 million in construction funding from Kawa Capital Management, advised by Aries Capital.

According to the Boston Real Estate Times, “The Bolt” is the latest addition to the CC&F's ongoing redevelopment of the previous Industriplex Superfund site. Site developments also include the Emblem 120, a 289-unit luxury residential and retail development, and the planned Zero New Boston, a 250-unit multifamily project with retail space and parking.

Massachusetts and local leaders, including Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll, Woburn Mayor Mike Concannon, State Rep. Richard Haggerty (D-Woburn), and EPA officials, endorsed the project for its economic and housing benefits.

“The Bolt exemplifies our vision for future development — one that embraces innovation, collaboration, and smart design,” said CC&F CEO Jay Doherty in a statement shared with the Boston Real Estate Times. “With its versatility, access to transit, and proximity to Boston, we believe this project will attract the next generation of cutting-edge companies.”

The site sits at a strategic transport nexus near I-93 and I-95, adjacent to the Anderson/Woburn MBTA and Amtrak station. This location positions the area as desirable real estate for major employers and startups, including Amazon Robotics, Boston Metal, Continuus Pharmaceuticals, Raytheon, and Ultragenyx.

Additionally, state infrastructure investments at the site include a $30 million bridge connecting both sides of the New Boston Corridor, set to open in summer 2026.