Avedisian Tours Pontiac Mill as Redevelopment Work Begins

Warwick, R.I. — Pontiac Mill, once home of “Fruit of the Loom” textiles, comprising 15 acres and 23 buildings on the banks of the Pawtuxet River, is on its way to mixed-use redevelopment as residential, office and retail spaces.

The historic mill, (except for the part now housing NYLO Hotel), dates back to the mid-1850s and is on the National Register of Historic Places. It’s been largely vacant and boarded up for a number of years, according to Mayor Scott Avedisian’s office.

On Wednesday, Avedisian met with developer Larry Silverstein and Project Manager Michael Harrington to tour the site, where renovations recently began to restore the dilapidated mill site to productive use.

Much of the complex can be restored and transformed into a vibrant, mixed-use property that will, in turn, promote further economic development, tourism, and recreational opportunities in Warwick, according to the Mayor’s office.

The process will create temporary and permanent jobs while restoring “a critical piece of Warwick’s history,” according to a release from Avedisian’s office.

“We are all very excited to see work on the Pontiac Mill begin,” Avedisian said. “Not only is the mill a historic landmark in the City, but one that deserves to be restored to its former glory. I look forward to seeing the rest of the property come back to life.”

The project is expected to last two years.