First Steps on a New First Ave

November 5, 2026
• A new project has been proposed for the property at 1 First Ave. after it has been vacant for more than seven years.

Needham residents may have noticed over the summer that the property at 1 First Ave. has been undergoing changes. The building that was there has been torn down, and the land has been prepped for a new project.

Several businesses have occupied the lot since the mid 1950s, including Howard Johnson’s, The Ground Round and Acapulcos.

During their meeting on Nov. 4, the Needham Planning Board held a public hearing for a new project proposal and special permit request for the property at 1 First Ave. Although the property has a long history of restaurants, the project team presented a proposal for a 9,000 square-foot building that would fit up to four tenants. Currently, this proposal plans to be retail space, but there is a possibility that could change.

Here is Municipal Producer Melissa Marchese with more: