PAWTUCKET, R.I. — A once-vacant industrial site in Pawtucket is springing back to life as construction begins on a major new distribution facility — the latest win for Rhode Island’s ambitious RI Ready program.

The 160,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art building now rising at 1 Moshassuck St. is expected to create about 300 new jobs, generate $23.6 million in household income, and bring in $35 million in private investment to the state.

“This is a great example of a public-private partnership supporting development of what was previously underutilized and vacant land,” said Pawtucket Mayor Donald Grebien.
“The Rhode Island Ready investment will support one of Pawtucket’s most important economic development projects.”

The project’s success is due in large part to a $1.5 million investment from RI Ready, a statewide site-readiness initiative modeled after the Quonset Business Park’s proven approach to accelerating industrial development.

A Proven Model for Quick Development

Managed by the Quonset Development Corp., RI Ready aims to unlock new economic potential by preparing underused industrial sites, streamlining permitting, and guaranteeing construction within 90 days of a lease signing.

The Moshassuck Street project checks all the boxes:

• A modern building with 32-foot ceiling heights, up to 25 loading docks, wide column spacing, LED lighting, and advanced fire safety systems.
• A prime location between I-95 and Route 1, positioning tenants perfectly along the high-demand Boston-to-New York corridor.

Community & Infrastructure Upgrades

The impact extends beyond the building itself. RI Ready funding is also covering major infrastructure improvements at the busy Moshassuck and Main Streets intersection. Upgrades include:

• A better truck turning lane
• Modernized traffic signals
• Utility relocations
• Improved drainage
• Fresh sidewalks, curbing, and landscaping

These improvements not only support the distribution center’s tenants but also make the area safer and more accessible for local residents and businesses.

Economic Ripple Effect

Once operational, the new facility will generate an estimated $3.8 million in local and state tax revenue, delivering lasting value for taxpayers and helping Pawtucket grow its reputation as a competitive hub for logistics and manufacturing.

Beyond dollars and square footage, the project reflects how smart state investment can transform dormant land into a productive job generator that keeps Rhode Island’s economy moving forward.

“This is exactly the kind of result we envisioned when we launched RI Ready — turning underutilized industrial properties into engines of economic growth,” said Steven J. King, PE, managing director of the Quonset Development Corp.

Part of a Bigger Story

RI Ready’s success in Pawtucket is one piece of a broader strategy to strengthen Rhode Island’s industrial base and attract new employers. The program offers not only direct investment but also technical assistance for engineering, permitting, and other complex pre-development work — removing obstacles that often slow job-creating projects.

Developers and property owners interested in transforming their industrial sites can learn more at RIReady.org, where they can explore resources, success stories, and ways to get involved.

Looking Ahead

As Rhode Island continues to compete for new industrial and distribution projects, investments like the Moshassuck Street development highlight how collaboration, clear strategy, and community support can turn long-idle land into new jobs, stronger neighborhoods, and a bigger tax base for generations to come.

Originally reported by Nerej.