Museums, Schools, Cheap Houses for Families

Why, it must be Fitchburg.

At least according to a "community profile" in last Sunday's Boston Globe, which touts the diversity of Fitchburg.

The reporter talked to Mayor Dan Mylott, who talks up Fitchburg, but also disturbingly alludes to "struggles." He does finish off with a nice pitch for families looking for cheaper real estate than you can around Boston or the 495 belt.

Certainly, this is something Fitchburg has going for it. Not only are houses generally cheaper, but the market seems to still be fairly strong in the area. From what we've seen, housing prices are still moving upward, and even if it's only moderate growth, that's better than most of the Boston area and the state.

The problem is, it's a tough commute from Fitchburg to Boston every day. We know as well as anyone. Fitchburg can never move closer to Boston (although rapid train service would help create the illusion of moving closer), but it can -- and should -- position itself as a strong, family-friendly community and then make sure that view sticks.