Hi,
Fruit Street is off of Highland Street, near WPI... of college kids and noise in the area. Highland Street is lined with small specialty stores and restaurants. It is a very busy area.
I would not want to live there unless I had no means of transportation. Downtown is nearby - it is on at least one bus route. And there is plenty to do in the area. If you are young and enjoy the nightlife, it is perfect!
Not so sure about the safety - I do not think it is that bad. I suppose you could always call the Worcester Police and ask them. But it is a thickly populated area!
Good luck!