I195 commission proposes new Hasbro HQ in Providence
Nov 01, 2024
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — A new effort to keep Hasbro in Rhode Island involves moving the company's headquarters to Providence.
The I-195 Redevelopment District Commission said it's voting on a resolution Wednesday that would allow Hasbro, which is mulling a relocation to Boston, to develop a new headquarters on Parcel 42.
"We’ve done our due diligence and a new Hasbro headquarters is a perfect fit for the 195 District, for Providence, and for Rhode Island," Marc Crisafulli, chairman of the I-195 Redevelopment District Commission, said about the pitch. "We’re putting the pieces in place in advance of a meeting with Hasbro to show that we are committed and ready to move forward with this site for their new corporate headquarters."
BACKGROUND: Hasbro mulls leaving Rhode Island
Courtesy: I-195 Redevelopment District Commission
The plan would be to construct a 300,000 square-foot building that includes on-site parking, an open floor plan and a retail store on the ground floor. There would also be a toy museum in the 195 District Park.
In September, Providence Mayor Brett Smiley said the city should be considered if a deal to keep the company in Pawtucket doesn't pan out.
Parcel 42 is where the Fane Tower would have been built before the project was scrapped last year.
ALSO READ: Could Hasbro come to Providence? Mayor Smiley says it’s possible
Last month it was announced that Hasbro had a 15% dip in revenue. In a memo sent to employees, CEO Chris Cocks said at the earliest, a move wouldn't come until mid-2026.
State leaders and Pawtucket Mayor Don Grebien have held meetings with Hasbro about staying in Rhode Island.
"The mayor and the city’s team are still in close communication with Hasbro CEO Chris Cocks and his team," a spokesperson for Grebien told 12 News. "Despite Hasbro wanting to move out of their current space, we are committed to keeping Pawtucket as their home. We look forward to continuing talks with them."
Smiley said Friday that he wants Pawtucket to still have first dibs, but if Hasbro declines he would be ready to make that pitch.
NEXT: Judge puts Providence Place mall into receivership
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