Transforming Pawtucket


The American Industrial Revolution was born in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, and its downtown district enjoyed many fantastic years.  The famous Slater Mill employed thousands of New Englanders, and the Blackstone River proved to be an abundant natural resource.


But all that changed when the Great Depression hit.  Workers lost jobs.  Retail stores and markets moved out, and the city lost its lure.  Since then, Pawtucket has become known as "the bucket," and the city has never substantially recovered ... that is, until now, according to many optimists.


In recent years, Pawtucket has become the new "it" spot for artists, and home to some of the state's most spectacular lofts.  While various businesses scatter the downtown, many storefronts remain empty and offices vacant.  Shri Studio is hoping to change that by moving in.  With a great network of supporters and motivated yoga teachers, we hope to help transform the downtown and to contribute to the health and well-being of this community, its residents and its neighbors.