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Despite union protests, one of New England's finest Beaux Arts buildings is finally going to be restored & renovated. It will become a boutique hotel in downtown Providence. The old Providence Journal building, and later a department store, is next door to city hall. The neglected structure will finally get the attention it deserves. For decades preservationists have been concerned with what would happen to this most important piece of city history - as it has deteriorated.
One of the reasons Beaux Arts buildings are so rare in America is the sky high cost to construct their elaborate classical architectural detail evocative of old Europe. Arguably, this building is the finest example of the species in all of New England.
In general, it's great that these buildings will be renovated.
I think the union protestors were concerned that they were not going to use local workers. Additionally, they will get another huge property tax abatement.
Bringing in outside workers for all things Providence from architecture to advertising to "what have you" is not a good economic plan. Nor is the continual abatement of taxes which homeowners have to absorb.
In general, it's great that these buildings will be renovated.
I think the union protestors were concerned that they were not going to use local workers. Additionally, they will get another huge property tax abatement.
Bringing in outside workers for all things Providence from architecture to advertising to "what have you" is not a good economic plan. Nor is the continual abatement of taxes which homeowners have to absorb.
Each project tax abatement application is different, depending on the cost verses what economic activity results are desired or anticipated. This particular project has to be quite expensive given the condition of the neglected, very robustly detailed historic building. Reuse as a hotel has to be particularly costly.
Sure, but according to many reports, Abdo has plenty of money.
Right. The city wouldn't want a developer coming, hat in hand, who is pleading hardship.
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