PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — Tenants of Atlantic Mills are taking decisive action to protect the Providence landmark from falling into what they fear could be the wrong hands. At a rally held at Riverside Park on Saturday, it was announced that a supermajority of tenants has formed the Atlantic Mills Tenant Union, demanding direct negotiations with the landlord to address their concerns about the building’s future. This move makes history as Rhode Island’s first commercial tenants union. For tenants, however, saving Atlantic Mills goes beyond a fight for real estate. BACKGROUND: Tenants fight to preserve Atlantic Mills amid potential sale According to a petition created by a concerned citizen that launched in early October, preserving Atlantic Mills emphasizes its cultural significance to the community. To date, that petition has garnered nearly 2,000 signatures. "It represents a rich tapestry of relationships and close community, many of which have found a comfortable dwelling here—our second home," the petition states. "We have put our hearts and souls into this place. Its impending sale threatens not only our morale but our very existence." The newly-created union is not associated with the petition. For decades, Atlantic Mills, located on Manton Avenue, has served as a hub for numerous artists and small businesses. Hundreds flock to Olneyville for its Big Top Flea Market, while its commercial and industrial spaces house artist studios, furniture stores, a church and more. As of Oct. 16, the Providence Preservation Society, estimated the building’s occupancy was at 88%. Originally built in 1852 for the Atlantic Delaine Company, the mill produced wool muslin delaine and became a leading producer of worsted and cotton-wrap fabrics, employing over 2,000 workers at its peak. In August 2023, 12 News learned the city had entered into a purchase agreement for Atlantic Mills, aiming to buy or redevelop the property. MORE: Providence seeks to acquire, redevelop Atlantic Mills building However, the deal fell through roughly a year later when the current owner declined to extend the agreement. The mill was subsequently relisted for $5 million. As of October, the sale remains pending with New York-based developer Eric Edelman, who told 12 News he intends to keep existing tenants, make improvements, and lease vacant spaces to stimulate economic development without raising rents. In response to the union forming, Edelman said on Saturday that "once we close on the building and are its official owners" there will be "direct contact with each tenant about their lease." "We want to keep all tenants in good standing at the building," Edelman added. The Olneyville Neighborhood Association described Atlantic Mills as a "space for organizing and supporting residents and grassroots efforts." In a social media post, the association called it "the last affordable, working-class space" in Providence, urging the community to ensure its future remains under "true community control." "Our people must take the lead in shaping the mill’s future, ensuring it remains a hub for connection and collaboration—not profit-driven gentrification and displacement," the post continued. AHEAD: RI leaders persist in keeping Hasbro local amid HQ search Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Breaking News SIGN UP NOW