Moving Tips5 Great Neighborhoods Westover Air Reserve Base
Best Neighborhoods Near Westover Air Reserve Base
- Burnett Road and New Lombard Road
- Fairview and Smith Highlands
- Broadway Street and Abbey Memorial Drive
- Sandy Hill
- College of Our Lady of the Elms
Westover Air Reserve Base: History and Overview
Westover Air Reserve Base is one of the most significant and historic military installations in the region, with a rich history dating back to its establishment as an Air Force Reserve Command base just before World War II. The base initially played a critical role in supporting early U.S. military efforts, providing a foundation for various strategic operations. From 1951 to 1955, it was managed by the Air Defense Command, after which control shifted to the Strategic Air Command (SAC). Over the following years, several important units were stationed there, including the 405th, 499th Air Refueling Wing, and the 99th Bombardment Wing beginning in 1956, each contributing to the base’s evolving role in national defense.
One unique and notable feature of Westover is "The Notch," an alternate SAC command bunker designed as a precaution in case of a nuclear war. While it may appear unimpressive at first glance, The Notch was constructed within Bare Mountain, with its location carefully chosen to offer natural protection to personnel in the event of an attack. This strategic use of geography underscores the era's concern for defense readiness and reflects the serious considerations of the Cold War period. Today, The Notch stands as a historical reminder of the measures taken to ensure the safety of critical command personnel during an era of heightened nuclear tension.
In addition to its command functions, the base stored nuclear weapons for SAC operations until 1973, further supporting the nearby Stony Brook Air Force Station in critical defense activities. In 2005, the Base Realignment and Closure Commission initiated a major transition for Westover, consolidating certain regional military functions and moving some operations from Bradley International Airport to the base. The 103rd Airlift Wing was the only unit that remained at Bradley, with the rest relocating to Westover as part of a $32 million renovation project. This investment was aimed at modernizing the base’s facilities to better support the over 1,600 service members stationed there, ensuring Westover's continued importance in national defense infrastructure.
Westover Air Reserve Base is located in Chicopee, Massachusetts, within the scenic Hampden County area along the Connecticut River, offering a picturesque and strategic setting for its personnel. Nearby, Chicopee Memorial State Park provides additional recreational opportunities, with trails for cycling and cross-country skiing, plus a 25-acre pond for those who enjoy outdoor activities. The northeast side of the park features the Chicopee Country Club, a popular spot for golf enthusiasts, making the area attractive not only for its military significance but also for its natural and recreational amenities.
The best neighborhoods near Westover Air Reserve Base in Chicopee include Burnett Road and New Lombard Road, Fairview and Smith Highlands, Broadway Street and Abbey Memorial Drive, Sandy Hill, and the College of Our Lady of the Elms. Each of these neighborhoods offers unique features and conveniences, making them ideal locations for those stationed at the base.
Burnett Road and New Lombard Road
Burnett Road and New Lombard Road are located directly south of Westover Air Reserve Base, providing easy access to both the base and several nearby amenities. This neighborhood’s proximity to Westover Airport and Chicopee Memorial State Park makes it an attractive choice for those who appreciate the convenience of having recreational options nearby. The Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90) runs through this area, facilitating eastbound commutes to Palmer and westbound travel to downtown Chicopee, enhancing its appeal to commuters. Additionally, access to I-291 provides a direct route south to Springfield, making the neighborhood ideal for those who frequently travel throughout the region.
Home Styles in Burnett Road and New Lombard Road Neighborhood
The Burnett Road and New Lombard Road area is primarily a suburban neighborhood, with the majority of homes being owner-occupied, giving the area a stable, community-oriented feel. Most of the homes in this neighborhood were built between 1970 and 1999, offering a range of architectural styles typical of that period, though some houses date back to between 1940 and 1969, adding a historical charm. While there are relatively few new builds, the neighborhood’s established character and variety in home designs provide a comfortable, settled environment. This combination of older and more recent homes makes it an appealing area for residents looking for a suburban feel close to urban conveniences.
Housing Prices
- Median Home Price: $282,711
- Average Rent: $1,528 per month
Local Activities
Close to Chicopee Memorial State Park, this area is ideal for families who enjoy outdoor activities. Golfers will appreciate the nearby Chicopee Country Club.
Fairview and Smith Highlands
West of the base, this neighborhood is popular for its scenic location along the Connecticut River.
Home Styles
This historic area features homes built mostly before 1969, including some pre-1940s houses. Architectural styles include colonial, ranch, and bungalow, with a mix of apartment complexes and a few high-rise buildings.
Housing Prices
- Median Home Price: $229,675
- Average Rent: $1,403 (lower than 79% of Massachusetts communities)
Local Activities
This neighborhood has walking and jogging paths along the river, and fishing enthusiasts can catch striped bass here. The Feldman Spray Park offers a refreshing spot for kids during summer.
Broadway Street and Abbey Memorial Drive
This neighborhood is located closer to downtown Chicopee.
Home Styles
This established area has many homes dating before the 1970s, including historic houses from the early 20th century.
Housing Prices
- Median Home Price: $227,929
- Average Rent: $1,237 (lower than 88% of Massachusetts neighborhoods)
Local Activities
The Chicopee Parks & Recreation Center offers programs like martial arts and arts & crafts, while Szot Park provides walking trails, sports fields, and a public pool.
Sandy Hill
This neighborhood lies on the northern side of downtown Chicopee.
Home Styles
Most homes here were built before the 1970s, with a mix of colonial, Cape Cod, and Gambrel-style houses. Homes typically have two to three bedrooms.
Housing Prices
- Median Home Price: $218,365
- Average Rent: $1,295 (lower than 85% of Massachusetts communities)
Local Activities
The area includes the Sara S. Sherman Swimming Pool, Fairview Shopping Center, and Chicopee Marketplace with major retailers.
College of Our Lady of the Elms
Bordering southern downtown Chicopee, this neighborhood stretches to the Connecticut River’s eastern bank.
Home Styles
This area features many historic homes built before 1939, along with some built before 1969, with few newer properties.
Housing Prices
- Median Home Price: $215,727
- Average Rent: $1,237 (lower than 88% of other Massachusetts communities)
Local Activities
Van Horn Park offers baseball fields, a playground, walking trails, and tennis courts, while the Baystate Medical Center provides nearby healthcare services.
Golf Courses Near Westover Air Reserve Base
Golf enthusiasts will find several nearby courses, including Westover Municipal Golf Course, which opened in 1957 along with the base. This 7,025-yard course has tree-lined fairways and a course rating of 73.7. For an alternative, the Veterans Public Golf Course in Springfield offers affordable rates and lessons. Designed by Geoffrey Cornish, it has a pro shop and a restaurant on site.
Shooting Ranges Near Westover Air Reserve Base
Those interested in shooting sports can visit Hot Bras Firearm & Bow Range, which features indoor archery and shooting facilities. The Springfield Sportsman’s Club, known for its large member base and extensive facilities, offers a 100-yard range, six pistol bays, a 300-yard range, and a skeet setup.
Museums and Attractions Near Westover Air Reserve Base
There are numerous museums nearby, perfect for history buffs and families alike.
- Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield offers 48,000 square feet of exhibits on basketball’s history, plus player achievements and an on-site skills contest.
- Titanic Museum provides an in-depth look at Titanic’s story, showcasing artifacts, interactive exhibits, and a tribute to its sister ships.
- Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum offers a look into Dr. Seuss’s life and works, appealing to fans of all ages.
- Zoo in Forest Park and Education Center is a nonprofit with over 200 animal species, educational programs, and a conservation focus. Guided tours are available for a behind-the-scenes experience.
- North River Park is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring areas for fishing, paddleboarding, and hiking trails at nearby Forest Park, where visitors often see various wildlife.
