Pawtucket Redevelopment Agency Setting the Stage for the Development Around the Ballpark at Slater Mill
PAWTUCKET ??? The Pawtucket Redevelopment Agency (PRA) is seeking planning and development consultants to assist them in the preparation for the ancillary development around the construction of a new, downtown minor league ballpark. The PRA is working with the City to maximize the development potential of Pawtucket???s downtown and riverfront to ensure that additional civic, commercial, and residential development is generated as a result of this catalytic project.
???The PRA is focused on being ready to assist the city from day one to attract large-scale development, be prepared with financing options, and keep ancillary development on track,??? said Roger Lemoie, Chair of the Pawtucket Redevelopment Authority.
???The ballpark will be a destination for all types of activity, commerce, and development. Residents and visitors from around the country will enjoy restaurants, shops, breweries, entertainment venues, hotels, and more,??? said Mayor Grebien. ???The State???s portion pays for itself on day one; the City is prepared with multiple strategies to cultivate development and investment around the stadium district to support its investment.???
The PRA is seeking a consultant to provide technical assistance as they move forward with this important project. Some key objectives will include: defining the project goals; presenting a variety of scenarios for land-development structures; identifying incentives for private investment; reviewing and assessing timelines for construction and development; making project recommendations; and other services.
??Across the country, stadiums have been built and renovated as centerpieces of urban revitalization and a way of energizing cities. Columbus (O.H.), Birmingham (A.L.), Toledo (O.H.), and Durham (N.C.) are prime examples of redevelopment projects anchored by a minor league ballpark that led to public benefits such as increased revenue, jobs, and investment in their host communities. The public-private partnership between the State, the City, and PawSox continues that successful model, and flips the industry financing standard on its head with the team investing over 50 percent of the project cost and taking on all construction cost overruns. In addition, the team will develop 50,000 square feet by the end of the first-year in a new ballpark, which will accelerate other development projects in the immediate area. ??
Mayor Grebien added ???The City and our residents have long-awaited an opportunity to reactivate and revitalize our downtown. This is a true public good that we must see become a reality for the future of our state and city.???
Rhode Islands??? leaders were clear ??? taxpayers have to be protected and the investment has to be cost neutral and draw new development and jobs.
Governor Raimondo, CommerceRI, seven Chambers of Commerce, businesses, labor, residents and organizations across the state support the Ballpark at Slater Mill. After amending the legislation, the Rhode Island Senate overwhelming passed enabling legislation. The House and the House Finance Committee are currently reviewing the legislation.