Polaroid Plans Multi-Million Dollar Film Processing Complex on Forbes Estate-August 26, 1965

Responding to pressing production demands, Polaroid Corporation announced plans to construct a massive film processing complex on the Forbes Estate near the Westwood line, contingent upon a crucial zoning change from residential use. During a meeting with Norwood town officials and financial executives last night, company representatives William L. LeBoeuf and Joseph W. Gibson detailed a potential $9 million investment projected to unfold over a 10-year period.

The long-range development calls for a campus of at least nine buildings—each valued at a minimum of $1 million—ultimately employing approximately 4,000 people. To meet urgent manufacturing timelines, LeBoeuf stated that the company must proceed without delay, targeting construction to begin on the first building by November with completion expected by next July. A special town meeting is anticipated to be called prior to October 1 to vote on the required rezoning.

Property Scope and Tax Impact

The project encompasses a total of 204 acres, with 30 acres located across the municipal boundary in Westwood. Gibson, Polaroid’s real estate division manager, clarified that current plans exclude any physical building construction within Westwood proper, though recreational facilities for the complex may eventually be situated there.

Local officials noted the substantial economic impact the development would bring to the town. At Norwood’s then-current tax rate and assessment levels, a single $1 million building was estimated to yield $36,000 in annual tax revenue—representing an increase of more than 50 cents on the local tax rate.

Archival Note: This article has been dynamically reconstructed from the original public record print archives of the Patriot Ledger