After considering contractor concerns, WRA selects Menkiti for $113M Denholm redevelopment
Rendering | ZDS Architecture and Interior Design of Providence
A rendering of The Menkiti Group's planned redevelopment of Worcester's Denholm Building
The Worcester Redevelopment Authority voted 2-0 on Thursday to approve the Menkiti Group’s plan to demolish the Denholm Building at 484-500 Main St. in Worcester and replace it with a 10-story mixed-use complex.
At its July meeting, Worcester Chief Development Officer Peter Dunn announced that his department would recommend the Washington D.C. developer’s plan over the six-story proposal from Stamford, Connecticut-based RMS Companies.
Approval by the board was delayed in that meeting by concerns voiced by board member David Minasian over the Menkiti’s choice of general contractor, Maryland-based Bozzuto Construction, because of alleged improprieties by subcontractors of the firm. Minasian is regional manager for the North Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters Local #336 Worcester.
Bozzuto Vice President Brian Rennie assured the board during the virtual meeting that Worcester’s Responsible Employer and Inclusionary Participation Policy policy is written into subcontractor agreements and will be adhered to. The project’s REIPP adherence will be reviewed by the WRA because of its current ownership of the land. REIPP reporting is otherwise only used in projects receiving tax breaks from the City.
Minasian’s concerns about allegations of wage theft against Bozzuto subcontractors were not addressed in Thursday's public meeting.
Board members Sherri Pitcher and Richard Burke both voted to approve the recommendation. WRA Chairman Michael Angelini abstained from the vote because of a conflict of interest. Minasian also abstained from voting. One seat on the five-member board is currently vacant.
After the vote passed, Angelini emphasized to Rengel and the Bozzuto group the enormous importance of completing the project on or before time because of the prominence of the site.
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