Jan Brodie | Executive director, The Pawtucket Foundation
1. What is the model for the transit-oriented development district around the commuter rail station expected in Pawtucket-Central Falls? A transit-oriented development … is the creation of compact, walkable, pedestrian-oriented, mixed-use communities centered around high-quality train/transportation systems. This makes it possible to live a lower-stress, lower-cost life without complete dependence on a car for connection to work and home life. It has led to city revitalization and suburban renewal throughout the country. … In Pawtucket-Central Falls, the new train station will be in the area of historic textile mills, including the Conant Thread area. Currently there are 2 million square feet of vacant or underutilized mill space and another 2 million square feet of development potential on vacant land. There are 150 acres of urban development potential within a half-mile of the station.
2. Is there a master plan for the district? We are in the midst of infrastructure planning for the district, including parking, bike lanes, open spaces, access plans, utilities and stormwater, street and intersection improvements. In addition, Pawtucket and Central Falls are joining forces with a joint planning commission for consistent zoning, tax-stabilization agreements and flexible, swift permitting.
3. Are you envisioning businesses, residential? Both, and more. We are part of the larger regional ecosystem. … To succeed we need to have a district that is mixed use, with parks and plazas, residential, retail and recreational space. The area will also support light manufacturing, startups and large campus users.
4. How is this going to be different from what sometimes looks like a commuter rail station surrounded by parking lots? There may be some of that, but remember this is already an urban environment. Think less a suburban commuter rail and more a Brooklyn neighborhood that uniquely fits into the bigger regional picture. … For residents, the Conant Thread district offers an authentic urban vibe with cheaper rents and easy access to the bigger cities. For businesses, it provides proximity to the region’s major transportation hubs and talent pools.
5. What is the timeline? The transportation hub, including both MBTA Commuter Rail and RIPTA bus lines, is committed to open in 2020. We anticipate that development will happen in stages over the next one to 10 to 20 years.
