What is occurring in downtown Hopkinton is called an urban heat island. Increased number of buildings and pavement are resulting in negative environmental impacts: higher levels of pollution and increased energy demand (air conditioning). The only solutions as stated by authorities in the field of climate change are the planting of trees and the preservation of natural ground cover. These should be primary concerns as we consider what happens to the Town Common and Center School.

— Beth and Rick Kelly, Hopkinton

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