Southborough is still largely rural, with low-density residential development along the old farm roads. Most roads are lightly traveled, but narrow. The terrain is relatively flat, unlike that of neighboring Ashland and Marlborough.
Route 9 is a major through highway in Southborough. It has far less strip shopping development than in communities to the east, however, and is generally satisfactory for through bicycle travel by experienced bicyclists. As in other communities, overpasses of Route 9 would open up attractive bicycle routes -- particularly at Parkerville Road, which is interrupted by Route 9 and otherwise would be a very attractive north-south route.
Route 30 is the major east-west alternative to Route 9. Its condition is highly variable, though there is less traffic than in communities to the east. Route 30 east of the town center is narrower than anywhere else in the study area. Upgrading Route 30 is necessary to provide a suitable east-west through route. One possible alternative would be rail-with-trail on the active rail line through Southborough, particularly at the crossing of the Sudbury Reservoir.
Framingham Road along the west side of the Sudbury Reservoir is very heavily traveled during rush hour, but it has shoulders sufficient for bicycle travel.
Cordaville Road at the south end of town carries enough traffic in rush hour not to be an attractive bicycle route -- it is another candidate for upgrading.
North-south Route 85 carries significant traffic, especially south of the town center, though it is wide except at the north and south ends of town.
U.S. Geological Survey maps of Southborough show a number of walking trails which might be upgradeable to bicycle paths. There are also an aqueduct and an abandoned railroad bed some stretches of which might be useable.