📍 Location & Geography
Billerica is a town located in the Middlesex County, Massachusetts, United States. It sits approximately 20 miles northwest of Boston and is bordered by the towns of Chelmsford, Tewksbury, Wilmington, Burlington, Bedford, and Carlisle. The town is spread over an area of 26.4 square miles, of which 0.9 square miles is water. Billerica is characterized by several brooks, rivers, and ponds, including the Concord River, Shawsheen River, and Nutting Lake.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates of Billerica, Massachusetts are approximately 42.5584° N latitude and 71.2690° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Billerica is part of the Greater Lowell region and is included in the Boston-Cambridge-Newton, MA-NH Metropolitan Statistical Area. The town covers a total area of 26.4 square miles, making it a moderately sized town within the region.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, Billerica has a population of approximately 43,784. The town has a diverse population with a mix of different age groups. The median age in Billerica is 41.5 years. The racial makeup of the town is predominantly White, followed by Asian, African American, and other races.
🏛️ History
Billerica was first settled in 1652 and was incorporated as a town in 1655. The town was named after the English town of Billericay in Essex. Billerica’s history is rich and includes notable events such as the establishment of the Middlesex Canal and the creation of the first public library in the United States.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Billerica is home to several parks and nature reserves, including the Vietnam Veterans Park and the Shawsheen River Conservation Area. The town is also known for its beautiful rivers and ponds, which offer opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water activities. The Nutting Lake Conservation Area is a popular spot for bird watching and nature walks.
🏫 Education
Billerica is served by the Billerica Public Schools district, which includes six elementary schools, two middle schools, and one high school – Billerica Memorial High School. The town is also home to the Shawsheen Valley Technical High School, a regional vocational-technical high school serving Billerica and several surrounding towns.
🚧 Transportation
Billerica is well-connected by road and rail. The town is served by the Lowell Line of the MBTA Commuter Rail, which provides direct access to Boston’s North Station. Major highways passing through the town include U.S. Route 3 and Interstate 495. The town is also within close proximity to the Logan International Airport in Boston.
📜 Trivia & Events
Billerica hosts a number of annual events, including the Yankee Doodle Weekend, a community celebration held in September. The town is also known for its “Pinehurst Fourth of July Parade”, a tradition that has been ongoing for over 50 years. A notable trivia about Billerica is that it was home to the first public library in the United States, established in 1794.