Project Lawrence
A series of stories in 2014 on efforts to turn around the long-troubled Massachusetts city.

As Lawrence Evolves, St. Patrick's Parish Broadens Its Mission
St. Patrick's Parish has broadened its mission to shepherd not just its flock, but the whole city. People say a lot of this change is because of one man --...

Lawrence Sees Job Growth, But Unemployment Remains Elevated
The old industrial city has been adding jobs at a faster clip than the state. But its unemployment rate remains stubbornly high.
Lawrence Reaches Tentative Teacher Deal
If it's ratified, it will be the first contract the Lawrence Teachers’ Union has had in three-and-a-half years.

Under Receiver's Rule, Lawrence Schools Show Early Gains
More than two years after being placed under state control, Lawrence's test scores and graduation rates are improving. So receivership seems to be working, but it's also sparking the ire...

New Lawrence Mayor Seeks Turnaround For Long-Troubled City
Lawrence suffers from a long list of woes, but new Mayor Daniel Rivera has his priorities: economic development and public safety.
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