A map of the area shows that a majority of the real estate is composed of medium-sized and small apartment buildings, with a few single-family homes. These homes are often occupied by both owners and renters. Many of the homes in this neighborhood were constructed before 1939 or after that date. There is also a large supply of new construction in the area, and this could be a contributing factor in the neighborhood's high vacancy rate.
The Neponset River drains approximately 117 square miles of land in eastern Massachusetts. Flowing from Foxborough, the river flows approximately 28 miles into Dorchester Bay. Near Dedham, the Town of Canton drains to the Neponset. In addition, the East Branch of the Neponset River is a major tributary, and much of southern Canton falls within its watershed. It also drains parts of Sharon and Stoughton.
The overall development pattern in the city is fairly diverse, with many residential neighborhoods surrounded by a college campus. Commercial and industrial growth would mostly occur in and around the Rt. 138 corridor. The zoning bylaw will detail these and other requirements in more detail. Residents would also have a number of alternative routes to reach schools, shopping centers, and natural areas. A sliver of open space along the Neponset River provides a pleasant and peaceful environment.
The water flow in the Neponset River is important for several communities in the area. However, during a prolonged drought, the river drops to very low levels. One record shows 1.4 cfs at the Norwood gage on October 20, 1963. The latest version of the Neponset River Basin Plan shows that over 90 percent of the river flow in the region is recorded every day.