It would have been easy to stick out his hand and ask for a bunch of taxpayer subsidies due to higher interest rates like other developers do.
Or scrap the project altogether, claiming changing economic times.
But Chris Marsella is pressing ahead with one of the most ambitious projects in Providence in decades.
Marsella is the president of Marsella Development Corporation and now could not be more excited about the future of his effort to build a major food hall in the historic Union Station in downtown Providence.
“We see this as a destination,” said Marsella in an interview with GoLocal.
The food hall, now named “Track 15,” was first proposed in early 2021. Now, the project is scheduled to open in 2024.
The first merchants were recently announced: a seafood and raw bar concept from Dune Brothers; regional Mexican cuisine from Chef Maria Meza and her family at Dolores; burgers and more from There There; and two Italian concepts from Kevin O’Donnell, chef and owner of Giusto and Mother Pizzeria in Newport.
“This is a pivotal point in the development of Track 15,” said Marsella in November. “After facing supply-chain issues and the hurdles that come with renovating a historic building, to be able to unveil the name, look and feel of the space and announce our merchant partners is a monumental occasion. The demolition of the interior of the building has been completed, and we look forward to forging ahead as we realize our team’s vision for this passion project.”
The overall development of the 18,000 square foot and developers say they are making a $22 million investment in the restoration and when completed, it will include a large central bar, a new home for seven Rhode Island-based restaurateurs, indoor and outdoor seating for over 300 patrons, an entertainment venue and a 10,000 square foot plaza which will provide outdoor seating and a home for special events.
Marsella’s vision — and commitment — made a difference in 2023.
By the GoLocal Lifestyle Team, December 28, 2023. Captured from golocalprov.com/food/Chris-Marsella-23-Who-Made-a-Difference-in-RI-in-2023