The 'AA' rating on Hopkinton, Mass.' GO bonds reflects the town's: Diverse and growing local economic base, complementing its access to the strong Boston MSA economy; Strong financial policies and considerable recent growth in reserves; Favorable debt position; and Above-average wealth and income indicators and rising property values. The town's full faith and credit GO pledge secures the bonds. Hopkinton, with a population of 13,346, is 26 miles west of Boston, Mass., near the intersection of Interstate 495 and the Massachusetts Turnpike. This strong highway infrastructure provides residents with easy access to a number of employment centers, including Boston and suburban high-tech corridors. EMC Inc., a supplier of information storage technology, is the town's leading employer with 2,800 employees and
