Dear Pawtucket Residents,
I am pleased to share exciting updates from the City of Pawtucket’s Commerce Department!
![](https://www.mybackyardnews.com/wp-content/uploads/C-MAYOR-8d840921-2353-aac3-2e08-630fb7a42678-1.png)
Firstly, I would like to promote our 2025 Commerce initiative “52 in 52”. It is more than just a promotional campaign. It is a celebration of the people, stories, and enterprises that make Pawtucket unique.
This initiative was created by Sandra Mazo, Deputy Director of Commerce, and is being executed by Sandra along with Director of Communications Grace Voll and City of Pawtucket interns Isiah Gois and Justin “JuJu” DeCosta. The objective is to highlight and celebrate 52 local Pawtucket businesses over 52 weeks, showcasing the diverse business community in our city.
Each week we will feature a different business, spotlighted on our social media as well as the brand new @pawtucketpromotes.
The initiative kicked off with our January theme “New Year New You Wellness” featuring Bileau Built, Shri Yoga, Step Up Nutrition, and Lily Nutrition. February’s theme, “Love Your City and Community” has already spotlighted Rosebud Florist. We invite you to follow along and support these local businesses that make Pawtucket special.
I am also pleased to announce the appointment of Jason M. Pezzullo as the new Director of Commerce for the City of Pawtucket. Jason joins us with an impressive background in economic development and a proven track record of fostering growth and investment within the communities he has served.
Jason brings extensive experience to the role having served the Cranston Planning Department for nearly 20 years and the past seven as its Director. He oversaw daily operations and various large-scale development projects such as Garden City and Chapel View. He has also applied his planning expertise in other planning departments around the state including East Providence, Hopkinton, and Coventry.
As Director of Commerce, Jason will focus on expanding opportunities for Pawtucket supporting local businesses, and driving strategic projects that enhance the economic vitality of our city. His leadership will be instrumental in strengthening Pawtucket’s position as a hub for innovation, commerce, and community engagement.
We are excited to have Jason on board and confident that his experience and vision will contribute significantly to Pawtucket’s continued growth.
Warm regards,
![](https://www.mybackyardnews.com/wp-content/uploads/C-MAYOR-2-d03e7598-7008-cca7-71b7-9ecd2cd2f1a0-1.png)
Mayor Donald Grebien