What is PADS 02860?

You mean people actually live Downtown in Pawtucket?

Absolutely, and they are working to enhance the quality of life and create a successful downtown. There is a lot of talk about the potential for Downtown Pawtucket, but many people are actually living it! Made up of residents, business owners, and other interested parties both new and old, PADS 02860 is a neighborhood association committed to improving the downtown experience by focusing on economic revitalization, public safety, beautification and celebrations of the diverse culture and life of Pawtucket.

Concerned about the future of Downtown Pawtucket, a small group of new residents began to organize PADS 02860 early in 2005 in response to renewed residential use and interest in the new commercial developments in the district. More than 50 people attended the first community meeting in July at the Pawtucket Public Library, and PADS 02860 continues to meet bi-monthly in newly renovated spaces and businesses in the Downtown area. Over 150 people have already joined the PADS communication network, and support from business and community groups continues to grow.

PADS intends to serve as a vehicle to effect positive change Downtown and create an organization that is a center of activity for ideas and discussion, as well as an information clearinghouse for Downtown activity. PADS can build support by promoting programs, services, and activities aimed at encouraging connections between neighbors and fostering civic involvement of the diverse community of Pawtucket.

The Downtown Experience

PADS 02860 is defined by Downtown residents and business owners, and other interested people who want to make the environment and amenities around them even better. Downtown Pawtucket is again becoming home for a few pioneers drawn to the living, working and creative spaces offered by renovated mill buildings, warehouses and office spaces. More and more people from Pawtucket and the surrounding area are moving Downtown and beginning to live the sort of urban lifestyle found in other cities across the country.

Those who live or work Downtown enjoy a real sense of community and the conveniences of a downtown location. It's a lifestyle where you look out the window and see the newly renovated mills and projects just getting underway, where community events take place right in your backyard, and where you can meet your friends for a cup of coffee, or an evening performance and dinner or dessert afterwards. PADS envisions Downtown as a destination where the community works, lives, and enjoys the arts, entertainment, restaurants and quality shopping experiences all in the unique atmosphere of historic Pawtucket on the Blackstone River.