PawSox Chair Lucchino: Vision is for “Public Park” in Pawtucket
Tuesday, April 04, 2017
Pawtucket Red Sox Chairman Larry Lucchino told a crowd of over 100 at Slater Mill on Monday that the ball club has a "strong preference" to stay in Pawtucket -- but offered few additional details to attendees.
Lucchino's remarks came during a forum hosted by Pawtucket Mayor Don Grebien along with the Pawtucket Foundation, to discuss Pawtucket’s "20/20 downtown development vision" with local business and property owners to get their input.
“Pawtucket is experiencing a revitalization and a renewed sense of optimism. The commuter rail is on the horizon, new businesses are moving in, and our existing businesses are growing. Pawtucket is truly evolving,” said Grebien. “Now is Pawtucket’s time, and we want to align the efforts of the public and private sectors to capitalize on the momentum that these exciting projects are generating
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Monday's forum saw business and community leaders speak about their vision and needs for Pawtucket, before Lucchino spoke to the crowd.
"We can be taught -- people are aware of the 2015 ill-fated venture to move to Providence that was led by a Providence 'chauvinist' that had a love for Providence that many of you have a love for Pawtucket," said Lucchino, referring to the late Jim Skeffington.
"We have worked with the city [of Pawtucket} and leaders of the city and have learned...the civic pride, civic possibilities," said Lucchino. " As a result, our very strong preference is to stay home. The Paw Sox belong in Pawtucket."
Lucchino mentioned few particulars, including whether their preference leaned towards staying at McCoy, moving to the Apex location, or looking at other options -- only that the yet to be unveiled PawSox project "fits in beautifully with Grebien's 20/20 vision."
"We've often said it's going to be more than a ballpark," said Lucchino. "The opportunity is present here. A new facility may be a ballpark, but it will be a public park the other 270 days a year. It will be a gathering place for community and open to a variety of multiple uses -- it has to be in a great neighborhood."
Related Slideshow: PawSox Stadium Aftermath: Winners and Losers
The Providence baseball stadium looked like a sure thing. Powerful owners pushing the project. Top politicians coupled with influential lobbyists and PR consultants all on board. Then, everything changed.
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