ACTON,
MASSACHUSETTS
Incorporated as a Town in 1805
Approx. Population - 4,333
Acton Community Profile (PDF)
Acton is a suburban community located 25 miles northwest of Boston. Although
Acton's population has almost tripled in the last three decades, the town has
retained much of its rural New England character, as evidenced by the
traditional town center and green, with fine examples of historic architecture,
and the stone walls and tree-lined country roads. However, Acton is well
prepared for the 21st century. Acton affords a full range of services to its
residents and businesses, including an active town government, top-notch
libraries, a nationally accredited police department, a full-time fire
department, and local and regional school systems that are ranked among the top
in the state.
Commerce continues to thrive and grow in Acton due in large part to its prime
location along Routes 2, 27 and 111, the commuter train stop, and its proximity
to Route 495. A wide range of retail stores and services, a community theater,
various types of commercial recreation and several museums, can all be found in
Acton.
Many historic sites has been preserved in Acton such as the Hosmer and Faulkner
Houses, as well as nearby Orchard House, Fruitlands Museum, Walden and the
Minuteman National Historical Park.
Acton also has a wide variety of beautiful and well-kept Conservation Lands
which are maintained by the Conservation Commission, the Land Stewardship
Committee, and Department of Natural Resources. Conservation Lands attract many
people during the year, and encompass over 1650 acres protected territory. There
are 21 Conservation areas in total including the Acton Arboretum, Nashoba Brook,
Pratt's Brook, Great Hill, among others. Hiking enthusiasts can continue or pick
up the Bay Circuit Trail in the Acton Conservation Lands and permits may be
granted in advance for those who wish to camp overnight at Camp Acton.
Although not a part of the Land Stewardship Committee, Nara Park is the town's
main beach and day - camp area. There are many athletic fields, a man-made lake
and beach area, free summer concerts, fishing, and a playground.
Acton also has community theatres, a bowladrome, a Science and Discovery Museum
and numerous shopping opportunities.
Transportation:
Acton is situated in the Greater Boston Area, which has excellent rail, air, and
highway facilities. State Route 128 and Interstate Route 495 divide the region
into inner and outer zones, which are connected by numerous "spokes" providing
direct access to the airport, port, and intermodal facilities of Boston.
