PAWTUCKET, RI – The Pawtucket Redevelopment Agency, in coordination with the city of Pawtucket, has advanced the redevelopment of the former Apex Department Store site and its surrounding parcels by selecting the top applicants from six proposals submitted for the Downtown Gateway Project.
See the proposal memos at the end of this story.
The selected applicants will now move into a final round of review and evaluation as the PRA works to identify the proposal, or proposals, that best align with the city’s long-term economic development goals and the needs of the Pawtucket community.
The Downtown Gateway Project encompasses approximately 20 acres of strategically located property in and around the former Apex site, including parcels along Main Street that the city has acquired over time. The redevelopment opportunity is expected to include a mix of residential, commercial, hospitality, and recreational uses.
“This is an important step forward for one of the most significant redevelopment opportunities in Pawtucket,” said Mayor Donald Grebien in a statement. “We received strong interest from developers, and moving a group of top applicants into the final round is very encouraging. We are focused on finding a transformative project that complements the tremendous investment already happening in Pawtucket and delivers lasting benefits for our residents, businesses, and neighborhoods.”
• D/R/E/A/M Development proposes a large-scale mixed-use district with 800+ residential units, 200+ hotel rooms, retail, entertainment, parking, and riverfront open space.
• Bandar Development & Builders envisions 500-650 residential units, office and retail space, a hotel and wellness facility, and a large central public gathering space.
• The proposal from Olive Tree Development, LLB Architects, and Bentley Companies prioritizes homeownership and includes roughly 150-155 residences and approximately 10 commercial spaces. All three concepts remain preliminary and subject to continued review and negotiation.
The site is located at the center of Pawtucket’s ongoing transformation, near Centreville Bank Stadium, the Blackstone River waterfront, new housing developments, transportation investments, and expanding economic activity throughout the city.
The PRA and its designated selection committee will continue evaluating the finalists based on their proposals, development concepts, experience, community impact, and alignment with the city’s long-term priorities. The process may include additional discussions and negotiations before a final selection is made.
“This is a deliberate process, and we want to make sure we get it right,” said Grebien. “The former Apex property represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to strengthen our downtown and waterfront district. We look forward to continuing this process and identifying a partner who can help us realize the site’s full potential.”
Additional information will be shared as the evaluation process advances.
