NEW BEDFORD — Significant progress continues at The Quest: New Bedford’s Enterprise Hub, where the interior construction phase of the extensive, top-to-bottom transformation is approaching its final stages. The work, now in its most visible period of finishing touches, remains on track to wrap up in early 2026.
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Situated at 1213 Purchase Street, the multi-phase redevelopment is designed to modernize the building and reposition it as a central hub for offshore wind, maritime business, and local economic development. The interior improvements include a redesigned entry lobby featuring a more welcoming arrival experience, newly constructed atrium stairs to improve circulation, and upgraded common areas that enhance accessibility and encourage collaboration. The top floor has undergone a complete renovation and is being tailored for companies in the offshore wind and maritime sectors—industries that are increasingly shaping New Bedford’s economic future.
Contractors have completed the new HVAC system, a major milestone allowing other trades to move quickly into painting, trim installation, and final finishes. The updated interior color palette, inspired by the city’s seafaring history, introduces lighter tones and maritime-influenced accents to reflect New Bedford’s coastal identity and its long-standing connection to the working waterfront.
Work is also ramping up on the building’s exterior. The Quest will soon receive new lighting, mechanical upgrades, utility improvements, and a full repointing of the historic brick façade. Contracting Specialist, Inc., a Massachusetts firm known for its institutional and municipal construction expertise, was selected as the lowest responsible bidder under state procurement laws. Their portion of the project is slated to begin in early spring. Another visual highlight will be a refreshed logo and prominent signage added to the building, easily visible from JFK Boulevard as visitors enter and exit downtown.
The $3 million renovation reflects a multi-partner effort launched last year by Mayor Jon Mitchell, Vineyard Wind CEO Klaus Moeller, and other stakeholders committed to the city’s future. Funding comes equally from a $1.5 million American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) allocation from the City of New Bedford and a $1.5 million contribution from Vineyard Wind’s Offshore Wind Industry Accelerator Fund, which supports the expansion of offshore wind infrastructure and supply chain capacity throughout Massachusetts.
Oversight for the project is being provided by P3 – Project Planning Professionals, an Owner’s Project Management firm based in Norwell with more than 15 years of experience leading complex public construction projects across the Commonwealth. P3 already works closely with New Bedford on major efforts including the restoration of the Zeiterion Performing Arts Center and the construction of the new Congdon-DeValles Elementary School.
Architectural design is led by RT Architecture (RTA), a respected firm with offices in Belchertown and Marion. RTA’s strong familiarity with the region—supported by past work with New Bedford Public Schools and the historic restoration of the New Bedford Superior Court Cupola—brings combined technical skill and local insight to The Quest’s modernization.
Interior construction is being executed by JJ Cardosi, Inc., a firm well-known for its craftsmanship and experience on complex renovation projects.
Once complete, The Quest will serve as a dynamic home for innovation, education, and industry, reinforcing New Bedford’s long-term commitment to investing in infrastructure that supports community development. It is expected to become a central anchor for workforce growth, business incubation, and the emerging offshore wind economy that is rapidly expanding along the South Coast.
Originally reported by New Bedford.
