2020 Year in Review: Donald Grebien, City of Pawtucket

What was your greatest professional accomplishment or most notable project, deal, or transaction in 2020? The city of Pawtucket has witnessed many accomplishments despite the ongoing pandemic in 2020. With the incoming Commuter Rail Station and many new residential and retail projects ongoing, we always strive to continue moving Pawtucket forward. New projects like the $44 million Dexter St. Commons at 71 Dexter St. are a testament of the boundless possibilities for developers interested in Pawtucket. The city is also excited to continue our progress on the largest economic investment project in Pawtucket’s history! Tidewater Landing is a $300 million development project proposed by Fortuitous Partners that will change the city for decades to come.

What was the most difficult part of working during the pandemic of 2020? The most difficult part of the pandemic has been not being able to interact with the residents, our hardworking employees, businesses, and local organizations the way we normally work with on a day-to-day basis. 

While virtual meetings are a good way of continuing business, it cannot replace the necessary human interactions to continue building our community.

What are your predictions for commercial real estate in 2021? New and exciting things are coming to Pawtucket in 2021. Our City continues to, and will always, welcome new businesses to our diverse community while collaborating with our current businesses. Pawtucket continues to attract the interest of investors, businesses, developers and residents who recognize that the incoming transit hub will provide easy access to desirable real estate with affordable development and rental costs. Pawtucket is open for business!