Fitchburg is changing. New development, downtown investment, and major public projects are reshaping the city and bringing much needed energy back to the community.

But behind that visible growth is a financial challenge city leaders say can no longer be ignored. In this North Central News special report, we examine the rising costs facing Fitchburg, from pensions and healthcare to infrastructure debt and long-term obligations, while exploring how city officials are working to balance services, development, and fiscal stability. Through interviews with current Mayor Sam Squailia and former Mayor Lisa Wong to analyze the city financial documents, this episode looks at the difficult choices ahead and asks what it will take to secure Fitchburg’s future while preserving the community that has defined it for generations.