Providence, RI The historic 350,000 s/f Atlantic Mills complex at 118 Manton Ave. in Olneyville officially changed ownership when Atlantic Mills RI LLC — led by Eric Edelman and Bob Berle — completed the $4 million purchase. The building was formerly owned by the Brynes family.

The 170-year old building was relisted and sold by listing agents Robert Fox and Berle of NAI Advisors after a previous deal with the city and Providence Redevelopment Agency fell through in August 2024.

In response to concerns raised by long-time tenants — artists, small businesses, and the Big Top Flea Market — a commercial tenants’ union was formed to advocate for rent protection, lease security, and community-driven management. The new owners have affirmed their commitment to maintaining Atlantic Mills as a creative and commercial hub, pledging to keep existing tenants (including the Big Top Flea Market), upgrade the building’s roof, windows, electrical systems, landscaping, and continue working with Acropolis Management.

With the sale finalized, the future focus shifts to implementing improvements, negotiating new leases for tenants in good standing, and navigating the evolving space in a way that balances preservation, affordability, and redevelopment.