If the Pawtucket Red Sox (Class AAA; International League) end up at a new downtown ballpark, the city is ready to move forward with private developers to spur additional growth in the immediate area.
The Pawtucket Redevelopment Agency has announced plans to hire a consultant to coordinate planning for the immediate ballpark area. According to a press release issued by city staff, the redevelopment agency is working 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, in a press statement.
“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 Pawtucket Mayor Donald Grebien, in a press statement. “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.
The current plan calls for the Pawtucket Redevelopment Agency to borrow a maximum of $85 million for the project, with the PawSox making a $41 million contribution, the state paying $26 million, and the city allocating $18 million. In addition, the team would pay $12 million after approval of the plan.he PawSox are seeking a new ballpark to replace McCoy Stadium, where their lease is set to expire after the 2020 season.
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