Much can be accomplished when different sides of an issue are willing to accept a reasonable compromise. That appears to be just what has happened between the developers of a proposed shopping plaza at Eagle Square in Providence and the preservationists who argue for the importance of saving historic mill buildings.
A year ago, a developer unveiled a plan that would have seen seven historic mill properties razed – to be replaced by a strip mall.
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Now, after much discussion between city officials, the developer and the preservationists, a plan approved by the city calls for the reuse of four of the seven historic buildings – and the construction of new buildings that fit in with the historic character of the existing structures.
The result will be a supermarket, which is badly needed in the neighborhood, and other retail tenants.
The preservationists remain concerned about the $31 million project. They are promising to watch closely as it proceeds. Is it possible to build a modern supermarket that adds to the historic character of an area?
Of course it is. It has been done before and now, thanks to the perseverance of so many, it appears that it will be done again.
