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On Tuesday, March 21st, dignitaries from the Province of New
Brunswick, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and the City of
Lawrence were welcomed by local Attorney Arthur McCabe, owner and
developer of 29 South Canal LLC, home of Artizan, the new
International Business Centre.
With a ribbon cutting ceremony, the Wood Products Group of
Canada, anchor tenant in the Lawrence’s newly renovated building
had the grand opening of its new Artizan Design Centre, at 29
South Canal Street. The 3,400 square foot Design Centre showcases
innovative, premium quality architectural, design, and building
products manufactured by 14 different companies of the Wood
Products Group of Canada, housed at the Centre.
Lawrence Mayor Michael J. Sullivan recalled when in 2002, McCabe
came to his office to show him the project he was working on.
According to Sullivan, McCabe’s vision to build an International
Business Center in one of the most dilapidated buildings left
standing in the city made him take a serious look at him. “I
called his wife and said to her: ‘Honey, I think your husband is
crazy’”, said Sullivan provoking laughter. “Then I said, ‘Art,
whatever you need from me, I certainly will help you do it’”,
finished Sullivan.
With the help of $1.2 millions from MassDevelopment New Markets
Loan Fund, McCabe was able to refinance debts and fund a number of
renovations at the former mill. “The New Markets Loan Fund’s
attractive rates helped make the numbers work for our mill
redevelopment project”, said McCabe, president of 29 South Canal
LLC. “I’m excited to have a role in revitalizing properties like
this one, since we are preserving a piece of history while adding
jobs and attracting new business to the region,” he said.
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