PAWTUCKET, R.I. (WPRI) — Construction got underway Wednesday for a new health club in Pawtucket.
Property developers will build an LA Fitness Health Club on the old Sears property, located on the Pawtucket-Providence line.
The property is owned by the Procaccianti Group and partner Stephen R. Lewinstein Associates.
“We felt the area was underserved and could use a 45,000 square foot sports club,” said James O’Sullivan, LA Fitness Director of Development.
Mayors of both cities were on hand Wedneday, as the developers were congratulated for beginning their project.
“Today is a terrific day for both our cities,” said Donald R. Grebien, Mayor of Pawtucket. “Not only will this fantastic new gym help transform this neighborhood, but its arrival is a great example of how both Providence and Pawtucket can attract new businesses and work together to drive our economies forward.”
“One of my priorities as mayor is to show companies looking to move to Providence that we value their business,” Providence Mayor Jorge Elorza added. “That means making our city more business friendly and helping to get them up and running quickly. This new LA Fitness demonstrates that both Providence and Pawtucket are open for business and ready to help them succeed.”
The gym will be located in Pawtucket — but its parking lot will technically be in Providence.
According to Mayor Grebien, this means both cities will earn tens of thousands of dollars in property tax revenue — money which can be used for city salaries, police and fire, and parks and recreation.
Developers say the new facility, located on Pawtucket Avenue, will include state-of-the-art equipment, group training, personal training, group fitness classes, child care center, racquet ball courts, basketball court, pool, and juice bar — among other amenities.
“I really do hope this brings a lot more traffic and people to shop and spend time here on Main Street,” Elorza said.
Local leaders are applauding the project, saying it will bring an economic boost to the neighborhood.
