If you haven't lowered your ride yet. Don't. The Big Dig is gonna be around for a couple more years and the roads are horrible. Too many people I've seen have to go 5mph to get over the patched up roads and pot holes.
Haven't seen much in terms of performance shops. Just a couple of small places that I wouldn't completely trust.
Although, at one time I was lost in the Auburn/Mass Pike area and noticed a performance place that looked pretty good. Anyone know what place I'm talking about? It's near an Autozone right off the Pike, I believe it had a big checkered flag on the side of the building.

Good luck in your new job and let us know if you need any help with anything.