While we have faced some delays, the day is finally here. On January 23, the ribbon will be cut on an all new Pawtucket-Central Falls Commuter Rail Station. Residents of Central Falls and Pawtucket can expect a brand-new train station as well as a surrounding transit-oriented development district that provides MBTA service to Providence and Boston as well as RIPTA service.

More than just a train station, the surrounding district has already attracted tens of millions of dollars in investment thanks to both senators Reed and Whitehouse. The senators have provided over $3 million in congressional funding for access to the new Pawtucket-Central Falls Transit Center and neighboring areas.

This funding includes historic mill conversions into new housing units and businesses. The area will be known as Conant Thread and will feature several new green spaces to provide recreation, shade, and improved stormwater management.

With 4 million s/f of pre-permitted development opportunities in the district and another 4 million s/f adjacent in downtown Pawtucket, Conant Thread offers desirable real estate with affordable development and rental costs providing great opportunities for new and established businesses and residents. We are excited to welcome new residents who work in the Providence or Boston area as Pawtucket will provide them a quick, easy commute–in addition to the fact that it is a great place to live! 

We truly have the opportunity to create an even larger hub of activity to live, work and play. 

I am so proud of what has been accomplished, and excited for what else is on the horizon. 

I hope you will join us for the grand opening on January 23 – more details to come!

Donald Grebien is the mayor of the city of Pawtucket, R.I.