The Northern Middlesex Council of Governments (NMCOG) is the regional planning agency serving the Greater Lowell region. NMCOG was established under Massachusetts General Law Chapter 40B and over time has expanded its role to support member municipalities in areas such as transportation, land use, housing, economic development, environmental sustainability, and intermunicipal collaboration. The 2025–2028 Strategic Plan positions NMCOG as the leading planning advisor and advocate for the region. Through technical assistance, grants, data analyses, convening power, and advocacy, NMCOG helps communities navigate complex planning, regulatory, and funding challenges. Its work is grounded in values of innovation, collaboration, and transparency.
Throughout this website, the terms “Greater Lowell” and “Northern Middlesex” are used interchangeably to refer to the region.