RI (WJAR) — A large police presence was seen on Arch Street Monday afternoon An NBC 10 photographer saw crime tape and a police cruiser Police appeared to be focused on a yellow house It is unclear what led to the increase in police Refresh this page for updates and watch NBC 10 at 5 After Rhode Island Football Club played to a scoreless draw against San Antonio FC on the third the Boston Banshees took on the Denver Onyx in a Women's Elite Rugby league match-up on the next day While the rugby event was sparsely attended by comparison to the sold-out soccer match the work of preparing the facility for the change was no less daunting The stadium lights were on late into the night Saturday And the crew had to do it all over again, with a little more time, as Centreville Bank Stadium is slated to host a soccer match between Rhode Island FC and the New England Revolution on Wednesday And they'll get to show off their soccer-to-rugby chops again in June when the stadium switches from an RIFC game on June 27 to host the Major League Rugby championship match on June 28 (WLNE) — Part of Arch Street was closed off as police investigated in Pawtucket on Monday afternoon ABC6 News crews on scene reported seeing several officers bring evidence bags into a police van crime scene tape blocking off an area of Arch Street A detective on scene told ABC6 News crews that the Pawtucket Police Department will release a statement Monday night #Breaking: Arch Street in Pawtucket has been shut down for a police investigation near Pond Street Police have been going in and out of a yellow house within the crime scene Working to learn more. @ABC6 pic.twitter.com/hWptsyqWvZ — Ryan Medeiros (@RRyanmedeiros) May 5, 2025 PAWTUCKET — Fans greeted the opening of Centreville Bank Stadium ON May 3 with praise for virtually every aspect of the new soccer venue: The sell-out crowd of 10,700 proclaimed the stadium was clean and modern and easy to get around in They raved about the food from upscale premium club eats to chicken fingers at the concession stand Chik-fil-A sandwiches and California tacos to corned beef sandwiches at Maven's Delicatessen The views from the seats in locations around the stadium got thumbs-up People couldn't stop talking about the beautiful scenery of the setting on the west bank of the Seekonk River people used "beautiful" to describe downtown Pawtucket They were wowed by the high-tech concession markets with no cashiers and no checkout registers with multiple lots scattered through downtown with up to 20-minute walks and a shuttle-bus situation Even a late-game downpour didn't get fans down — perhaps because it was followed by a brilliant rainbow on the other side of the river as if stadium general manager Paul Byrne had positioned it to be perfectly visible from the stands Tailgating was in full swing in the Apex lots near Centreville Bank Stadium just after 1 p.m “It’s the culmination of following this team even before they started last year,” Dan Welch said as he grilled cheeseburgers “It’s a day for the city of Pawtucket and the state of Rhode Island.” “It’s just nice for the city of Pawtucket to have something we can all get behind,” said Alex Czekalski of Cumberland They were informed by Jerricka Hill of the schedule for the “March to the Match” parade being organized by the Defiance 1636 fan group “We have a very complex schedule for the day,” Hill said Chris and Melanie Grossi of North Providence got to the parking lots on the former Apex property just before 1 p.m “This is how we’re choosing to celebrate our 17th wedding anniversary,” Melanie said "It’s been a lot of fun last year," Chris said “It’s going to be even more fun in our new stadium The thunder of drums echoed off the stone arches of the Division Street Bridge as the Defiance 1636 fan group led the first-ever “March to the Match” at Centerville Bank Stadium at about 3 p.m The march started at the parking lot at the former Apex building where the Defiance 1636 fan group had set up a tailgate A crowd of several hundred took over the street The march was met at Rhode Island Football Club by team founder Brett Johnson and Gov who got cheers for his role backing public funding to build the stadium The three-quarters-of-a-mile march was a moving party from downtown to Tidewater Landing home of the stadium along the Seekonk River The parade attracted stares — and cell phone video — as it moved through the stadium to the Defiance 1636 section in the stands behind the south goal Best seats in the houseSasha Jassem of Lincoln might have had the best seat at the inaugural soccer game at Centreville Bank Stadium on May 3 likening the low-angle view of the field to almost being part of the game.“I was told it was really cool to be in the corner because you can see the corner kicks very well,” said Josh Sinel Their appreciation of the sweet seats also extended to the new stadium itself “Everything just looks new and modern and clean,” Sinel said “I think they did a really nice job,” Jassem said Carlos Tillett of Pawtucket and his fiancée were confused when they tried to exit the concession market at Centreville Bank Stadium during RIFC's home opener "We didn’t know how the pay system works," Tillett said doesn’t require payment when shoppers exit They swipe their credit card when they enter cameras track them around the store and they get charged for whatever they pick up Predicted Weather: Evening showers | High 68 | Low 54 Wednesday night's showdown will be the first-ever meeting between these two sides whose stadiums are separated by just 21 miles either side of the MA/RI state line Despite the lack of on-field history between the Revs and RIFC there are plenty of connections between these two clubs RIFC owner and Rhode Island native Michael Parkhurst played four seasons for the Revs from 2005-08 while head coach Khano Smith spent five years with the Revolution as a player and four more as an Academy coach where he worked with current RIFC goalkeeper coach Karl Spratt is littered with Revolution Academy products including former first teamers Zachary Herivaux and Isaac Angking and they'll do so as one of the hottest teams in MLS having won four straight and five of their last six to climb into 9th place in the Eastern Conference This past weekend's 2-0 triumph in Toronto powered by goals from Carles Gil and Leo Campana stretched New England's shutout streak to 385 minutes and their seven goals against are the fewest in MLS head coach Caleb Porter has indicated that Wednesday night's match will feature a rotated Revolution roster as the Revs have used the same starting XI for three straight games and have another trip to Orlando City SC looming on Saturday 5 pts.) are riding the high of this past weekend's opening of Centreville Bank Stadium the club's new 10,500-seat venue in Pawtucket While the 0-0 draw in that contest leaves RIFC 10th in the USL Championship's Eastern Conference standings this is a group that won the Eastern Conference title last season advancing to the USL Championship Final in the club's first year of existence The winner of Wednesday night's match will host either Chicago Fire FC or Detroit City FC in the Open Cup Round of 16 but first the Revs will return to MLS action on Saturday night Wednesday night the Revs will wear the "Eastern White Pine" kit which will serve as the club's Community kit for the 2025 and 2026 seasons Inspired by the Flag of New England on the 250th anniversary of its first use by New England colonies in the Revolutionary War this is the first time in a decade that the Revs have paid homage to the historic Flag of New England in their kit design While the Flag of New England has regularly been featured as a minor accent on the club's jerseys the new kit's design iterates on past tributes by focusing on the Eastern White Pine featured on the flag This is the first season-long Revolution uniform to feature Forest Green as the leading color You can purchase your "Eastern White Pine" kit HERE The day began with a flyover and sunshine and ended with a downpour and a rainbow Pawtucket’s Centreville Bank Stadium officially opened for business on Saturday afternoon Rhode Island FC battling San Antonio FC to a scoreless draw in the first USL Championship action at the new stadium on the banks of the Seekonk River An announced sell-out of 10,700 saw the reigning Eastern Conference champions hold this season’s Western Conference leaders without a goal for the first time in eight matches but could not beat former MLS goalie Richard Sánchez with Rhode Island’s Koke Vegas making arguably the day’s finest stop in the 37th minute Jimmy Medranda forced a turnover in the midfield for San Antonio (5-2-1) and a 29-year-old Spaniard who made five appearances for Levante in La Liga from 2018-20 pushing the shot out of play with a leaping right hand Lights and pyrotechnics accompanied the start of the first match at the former Stadium at Tidewater Landing on which construction began in 2022 — three years after it was announced staged its first of what it plans to be a regular “March to the Match,” and drew hundreds Kickoff was pushed back a half hour to allow the capacity crowd to get into the stadium, which cost some $130 million — by far the most expensive minor-league soccer stadium in the country What a sight over Centerville Bank Stadium in the final minutes of @RhodeIslandFC’s first game in their new stadium. pic.twitter.com/GyU5xj2aMW It played its first five USL Championship matches this season on the road with Saturday the first of 15 scheduled home dates in the second-level league After the stadium hosts the Boston Banshees of Women’s Elite Rugby on Sunday, Rhode Island will welcome its top-level neighbors, MLS’s New England Revolution, for a round-of-32 match in the US Open Cup on Wednesday night. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Home Delivery Gift Subscriptions Log In Manage My Account Customer Service Delivery Issues Feedback News Tips Help & FAQs Staff List Advertise Newsletters View the ePaper Order Back Issues News in Education Search the Archives Privacy Policy Terms of Service Terms of Purchase Work at Boston Globe Media Internship Program Co-op Program Do Not Sell My Personal Information What a sight over Centerville Bank Stadium in the final minutes of @RhodeIslandFC’s first game in their new stadium. pic.twitter.com/GyU5xj2aMW The Rhode Island Publications Society has just released a detailed and definitive biography of Mayor McCoy that will withstand the test of time is titled "Prince of Pawtucket." It examines not only the colorful life of a famous political boss but also the workings of a typical 20th-century political machine It is the maturation of Jennings’ doctoral dissertation a scholarly endeavor that I was pleased to direct and his research is an indication of that trait Jennings has scrutinized every facet of the tumultuous life and political career of the “Prince of Pawtucket.” McCoy was given that name by Jennings in his doctoral dissertation written two decades before "The Prince of Providence" superficially scanned the career of Mayor Vincent Cianci Both McCoy and Cianci (whom I knew intimately) have their generous share of supporters and detractors. This bifurcation is the fate of all powerful, flamboyant, charismatic, brazen and bold politicians. Look no further than Boston’s legendary James Michael Curley; New York City’s William Marcy “Boss” Tweed and Jimmy Walker; Frank Hague of Jersey City; George “Boss” Cox of Cincinnati of Chicago ‒ to list only the most notable mayors ‒ depending upon one’s point of view Political bosses did a great amount of good their actions were usually governed by the ethical fallacy that “the end justifies the means.” As Charles R Rhode Island’s own Yankee-Republican statewide boss once observed: “An honest voter is one that stays bought.” During our travels throughout all 50 states my wife Gail and I had occasion in the 1980s to visit the Louisiana state capitol in Baton Rouge Some believe it was the model for Tom McCoy’s Pawtucket City Hall built at the direction of Governor Huey Long is the highest state capitol building in America Some state records and exhibits are maintained on the upper floors of the huge state house we were greeted by two elderly curators who had personal reminiscences of Huey Long The man extolled his virtues to the verge of canonization; the woman denounced him as a scoundrel who deserved a cannonade in 1999 when I nominated and inducted Mayor McCoy into the Rhode Island Heritage Hall of Fame I received compliments from several knowledgeable Democratic politicians including former House Speakers Matt Smith and John Harwood but also harsh criticism via a letter from an elderly Pawtucket lady who viewed McCoy as “the incarnation of evil.” Such is the fate and the legacy of the political boss Pawtucket is a much smaller city than those listed above but the workings of a political machine are similar regardless of size as attested to by the story of Andrew “Bossy” Gillis of Newburyport Although this biography is published in 2025 nearly all of the research was performed by Jennings four to five decades earlier while he was my graduate student at Providence College he had the scholarly advantage of interviewing the political insiders of the 1930s and 1940s coupled with his masterful skill in traditional research makes Jennings an authoritative biographer of Tom McCoy His book is a major contribution to our knowledge of Rhode Island politics Conley is founding president of the Heritage Harbor Foundation and president emeritus of the Rhode Island Heritage Hall of Fame PAWTUCKET – Koke Vegas was the first to board the ship And Maxi Rodriguez punched his ticket in Year 2 The goalie and midfielder tandem saved the club’s inaugural game on May 3 from being stolen away by visiting San Antonio FC denied a go-ahead goal by Jorge Hernández in the 62nd minute And Rodriguez nearly delivered the game-winning redirect off a corner two minutes later but the midfielder’s prospects of his new club were true "The stadium was a big selling point for me," Rodriguez said "Playing in front of a crowd like that and just feeling that kind of environment I think there's times when it doesn't feel real I felt like I never ran out of energy because of the environment." Rhode Island (1-3-2) clawed out one point against a San Antonio (5-2-1) squad that sits atop the Western Conference It was a day that saw postcard skies above the Seekonk River give way to an outright downpour Some of the 10,700 RIFC fans in attendance scattered for cover but those who stayed only grew louder through the rain "You see how the players are just pushing at the end the supporters are just driving them on," coach Khano Smith said Those dark clouds departed within minutes as quintessential New England weather wanted its moment on this historic day The fans who stayed also saw a rainbow fall elegantly behind the main scoreboard how the community was really looking forward to having our own home in elite sports That's amazing and that means a lot for me and for everybody in the club." The field opened more in the second half for the home squad and Rodriguez could have played hero in true form But Albert Dikwa’s header in stoppage time served as the last chance to make RIFC the first winner at Centreville Bank Stadium "I'll be thinking about that for at least the next two days," Rodriguez said of the missed chances The keeper made a good save on the first one but I think I could have roofed it and scored and I want to be the guy who puts it in the back of the net." Dikwa narrowly missed left on his header as Rhode Island will now prepare to face the New England Revolution on Wednesday night for the right to be the inaugural winner at the new stadium "We need to be the best version of ourselves," Smith said of the pending matchup "I don't think that's going to be hard for them and they're going to have that extra little bit of focus and being dialed in." There will be more history made in Pawtucket over the following weeks but Hernández goes into the books for seeing the first card His tackle of Amos Shapiro-Thompson in the 34th minute earned a yellow card and San Antonio’s Richard Sánchez made five stops The 10,700 announced attendance is more than a sellout for the new stadium Overflow fans filtered onto the north and south concourses watching the game from the endzones If Rhode Island can routinely host that size of crowd it would rank the club near the top of the USL Championship in average attendance That won’t be determined until the season’s end weather that the home opener boasted would help Rhode Island’s cause "This is going to be one of those days that I won’t ever forget "I think because we got an important clean sheet for the first time in our stadium and credit to the people in the club that were working for [years] to make this moment real I think hopefully we can create so many memories." PAWTUCKET – The day has arrived. Will it be packed to the brim as Rhode Island FC welcomes San Antonio FC for the inaugural game in Pawtucket Will the home team give its fans something to cheer for against a tough San Antonio squad today as RIFC etches its name into the state’s sporting history The Providence Journal is in Pawtucket all day as we cover the historic opening game at Centreville Bank Stadium Follow along for regular updates throughout the day Rhode Island FC and San Antonio FC played to a 0-0 final in Saturday's inaugural game at Centreville Bank Stadium Read The Providence Journal's full coverage of the game here. a Jewish deli walked into a soccer stadium… but the Maven’s Delicatessen concession stand at Centreville Bank Stadium won rave reviews May 3 when Rhode Island Football Club opened its new home pitch might have had the best seat at the inaugural soccer game at Centreville Bank Stadium May 3 “Everything just looks new and modern and clean,” said Sinel “I think they did a really nice job,” said Jassem It was a great showing at RIFC's inaugural game in Pawtucket with an announced attendance of 10,700 now let's just hope the weather holds for the final 15 minutes Richard Sanchez matches VegasMaxi Rodriguez sent in a close range shot off a rebound that Sanchez batted away to keep this match even That was back-to-back standout plays by the goalies Koke Vegas just halted the go-ahead goal by Jorge Hernandez in the 62nd minute but Vegas came off his line to stop the sure goal RIFC substitutionAlbert Dikwa is in for Brito in the 60th minute It's still 0-0 as the weather is shifting in the wrong direction were confused when they tried to exit the concession market at Centreville Bank Stadium during RIFC's May 3 home opener "We didn’t know how the pay system works," said Tillett and they get charged for whatever they picked up It's scoreless in Pawtucket after 45 minutes Holstad was issued a yellow in the 44th minute and Paredes was handed a card in stoppage It was a chippy 45 minutes that included a stoppage in the 35th Both teams had three shots in the first half with Holstad's chance from distance being the best opportunity We'll see if either team can breakthrough in the second half Jorge Hernandez was handed a yellow in the 35th minute for a tackle on Shapiro-Thompson That'll go into the history books as the first yellow card at Centreville Bank Stadium The sunshine has washed away from the clouds rolling in from the northeast There's a storm over Hartford right now (around 5 p.m.) Holstad had the game's first chance with a shot from outside the 18 that went just over the top bar in the 11th minute That would've been quite the start for the home team Introductions finishedRIFC just had its first walk-in complete with a lights and a pyrotechnics show Kickoff is beginning momentarily and the seats are filling quickly The thunder of drums echoed off the stone arches of the Division Street Bridge as the Defiance 1636 fan group led the first-ever “March to the Match” at Centerville Bank Stadium around 3 p.m The march was a moving party from downtown to Tidewater Landing The parade attracted stares – and cell phone video – as it moved through the stadium to the Defiance 1636 section in the stands behind the south goal Flanked to our right is the Woonsocket Call's splendid sports editor Alex Greive; Luis Andres Paredes; Jimmy Medranda; Jorge Hernandez; Nicky Hernandez; Almir Soto; Nelson Flores Blanco; Mitchell Taintor; Mohamed Omar; Alex Crognale; Richard Sanchez RIFC starting lineupKoke Vegas; Aldair Sanchez; Grant Stoneman; Noah Fuson; Clay Holstad; Rio Hope-Gund; Jojea Kwizera; Joe Brito; Zachary Herivaux; Maxi Rodriguez; Amos Shapiro-Thompson Opening kickoff has been pushed back to 4:30 Tailgating was in full swing in the Apex lots near Centreville Bank Stadium just after 1 p.m “It’s just nice for the city of Pawtucket to have something we can all get behind,” said Alex Czekalski “We have a very complex schedule for the day,” said Hill Chris and Melanie Grossi, of North Providence, got to the parking lots on the former Apex property just before 1 p.m “This is how we’re choosing to celebrate our 17th wedding anniversary,” said Melanie "It’s been a lot of fun last year," said Chris soccer fans were already arriving at the Division Street parking lots near Centreville Bank Stadium for Rhode Island Football Club's opening day match “I’m anticipating a fun day,” said Peter Kilkenny Lynn; daughter-in-law Chastity; his grandson; and others “It’s just nice to have a local soccer team,” said Chastity Rhode Island FC played its inaugural season last year at Bryant University As of Friday afternoon, tickets for the game were available at seatgeek.com range from $34 in Section 126 to $436 in Section 105 If you can’t make it to Pawtucket for the home opener the game can be watched on myRITV and streamed on ESPN+ The match is also broadcasted on 790 The Score (790 AM) (WLNE)– The trial of a Pawtucket man accused of fatally shooting a Boston cab driver is scheduled to begin today at 9 a.m outside of the Colonnade Hotel on Huntington Avenue in Boston on June 4 Oruma had reportedly parked his cab outside of the hotel when Foy entered the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office claims that Foy exited the cab before moving to the driver’s side door and assaulting Oruma Foy reportedly told police that he had shot Oruma The trial will be overseen by Judge Anthony Campo PAWTUCKET – The rain came and went in just a few short minutes a rainbow taking its place over the Seekonk River an occasion some seven years in the making The venue was filled beyond capacity – 10,700 fans jammed the two-deck grandstand behind team benches the bleachers just a few feet from each goal and additional seating along the water Some scattered when the downpour started just before the 90th minute while others reveled in the chaos lifting their voices and urging the new team in town to find a late winner "Today means everything," Rhode Island FC goalkeeper Koke Vegas said the community were all looking forward to having our own home." Rhode Island FC and San Antonio FC battled to a 0-0 draw in this USL Championship meeting The match was a bit short on attacking quality – 36 fouls and five yellow cards spoke to its chippy nature There were snippets of an offensive threat but only a handful of real scoring chances The result and the performance will eventually fade into history Few could tell you who won the first baseball game when McCoy Stadium opened its doors a couple of miles up the hill from here in 1942 What we remember are the good times with family and friends the entertainment we found and the moments we created "The rainbow was cool," Rhode Island FC head coach Khano Smith said I saw my mom – I saw the look on her face." Ben Mondor and his lieutenants fostered an environment with the Pawtucket Red Sox that led to multiple decades of magic Rhode Island FC chairman Brett Johnson and his front office took their first step toward attempting to do the same here The lines that jammed the concourses at each end of the pitch some two hours before scheduled kickoff hinted at early success reaction – it was just beautiful today," Johnson said "It was everything I could have hoped and dreamed for when we set on this project seven years ago." Johnson’s biggest challenge has been shifting more than just the land here Portions of the state still seethe in the wake of the 38 Studios debacle an ill-fated business partnership with ex-Red Sox pitcher Curt Schilling that left taxpayers on the hook for millions It was partly the apprehension created by that failure that prevented Mondor's ownership successors from securing public funding for a stadium either in this city or in downtown Providence Rhode Island’s loss became Worcester’s gain when the Red Sox moved their Triple-A affiliate to Massachusetts in 2021 Construction on this project began the following year Dan McKee casting the deciding vote at a Rhode Island Commerce Corp meeting to pave the way for an August 2022 groundbreaking Rhode Island FC spent the 2024 season at Bryant University and its first five matches of this campaign on the road before finally arriving here "When I first signed and started speaking to Khano the stadium was a big selling point for me,” midfielder Maxi Rodriguez said “Playing in front of a crowd like that and being in that kind of environment Johnson was among those marching with the Defiance 1636 supporters group before the opening whistle, taking a place at the south end of the stadium. Their drums filled the air with the type of noise you’d associate with a World Cup match something we’ll have a chance to see at Gillette Stadium next year much as there was an appetite for baseball a sport that filled our summers in the state for the better part of 80 years "We cannot say that we’re going to give you victories," Vegas said "We can say that we’re going to give all that we have McKee, Pawtucket Mayor Don Grebien and several other noteworthy guests were among the crowd Saturday. What they saw had to have been encouraging in terms of moving ahead with Johnson’s wider project – Tidewater Landing a bustling combination of housing and commercial property using this venue as an anchor point It’s something he visualized as a Brown University undergrad who used to row along this same river an academic past that preceded his professional career in sales and venture capital "Look at the economic impact – putting aside the environmental impact," Johnson said Just the joy and unification that sport brings." It felt long overdue after some recent events here A few drops from the clouds above did little to dampen spirits bkoch@providencejournal.com On X: @BillKoch25 PAWTUCKET, R.I. (WJAR) — Rhode Island FC is set to kick off a new era Saturday afternoon. For the first time, the team will play at the brand-new Centreville Bank Stadium, hosting San Antonio FC in its home opener. The stadium, the centerpiece of the Tidewater Landing development project in Pawtucket, is set to welcome thousands of fans Saturday afternoon. The club is expecting a capacity crowd, announcing a sell-out weeks before the game. However, some residents of the area near the brand-new stadium tell NBC 10 they are concerned about the parking and traffic the stadium may bring. In anticipation for the large crowds at home games, club officials have opened several lots near the stadium, most of which are a 15-minute walk. It will cost fans $30 to park in the closer lots, and $20 to park in further lots. There is a free lot for fans to park at near the former McCoy Stadium. There are several public transportation for fans. RIPTA will run buses to the stadium. There is also a rideshare drop-off/pick-up zone at 468 Pleasant Street in Pawtucket. Fans can also ride SPIN scooters to the stadium. There will be a fan-fest prior to the game, as well as a "March to the Match" for fans to head together in unison to the stadium. READ MOREThe wait's over: RIFC home opener underwayby ERIN COOGAN, NBC 10 NEWS A sold-out crowd of over 10,000 gathering this afternoon at the brand-new Centreville Bank Stadium at Pawtucket's Tidewater Landing. Lots of soccer fans heeded the warning, coming down hours before the game against San Antonio FC kicked off. As expected, a little bit more congestion as game time closed in. But the general consensus, according to people who spoke with NBC 10, was that fans felt informed about the parking situation and were not fazed by the massive crowds. Many fans said not even the sprawling lines that inevitably formed outside the entry gates, nor the nearly mile long walks from surrounding area parking lots turned out to be of any concern. Bright and sunny weather also allowed fans to show up and show out, spreading their RIFC pride throughout the city. Many fans commended extensive preplanning by city leaders and stadium staff for the relatively painless commute to the park. This was not your standard home opener, this was the opening of Centreville Stadium, RIFC’s true home. After a season spent at Bryant University, getting to play in a stadium felt like moving out of your first apartment and into your first home. The Blazing Musket is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Something felt different, something just felt right. The stadium is right on the water and features some slick screens. Additionally, fans are right on top of the pitch, making the impact of their support (or disdain) even greater. Fans also get to experience a modern, open-air concourse featuring concessions, sleek bars, as well as a team shop to buy jerseys, scarves, and other merchandise. Additionally, there are food trucks where fans can also taste some local cuisine. Walking around the stadium, you see multitudes of fans in jerseys. Defiance 1636 marched into the premises, cheering loudly with flags and streamers in hand. The players entered the pitch to Roman Reigns’ theme music, a reference that not a lot of you will get but if you are a wrestling fan you will. I acknowledge my tribal chief, and also acknowledge that it really sets the scene for a fierce competition. After a well-shot, hype video, the moment had arrived. RIFC was playing its first match in its true home. After an initial burst of energy, play simmered to a standstill as both sides began figuring out how to break down their opponents. While the team was banged up with eight players injured, Rhode Island FC fed off the energy of the fans. The supporters were providing noise, whether it be the beat of the drum or chanting for the home side. Fans even got involved with a wave going throughout the stadium. If there is one drawback, the stadium was not prepared for the number of fans in attendance. Lines for bathrooms and concessions were extremely long, which left fans the choice of waiting for food and drinks or watching the team play. If RIFC expects a capacity crowd for every home game, they will need to do a better job of eliminating wait times or the congestion in the concourse. The play on the field also left something to be desired. While Rhode Island’s press worked wonders against a San Antonio side looking to build out of the back, RIFC was unable to take advantage of chances in the final third. Clay Holstad launched some bangers and Maxi Rodriguez's header in the second half just brushed by the post but Rhode Island couldn’t find a goal. Rodriguez launched a curler in the 80th minute that also was just wide of the net. As expected with a 0-0 game, the goalkeepers were the best performers. Koke Vegas and Richard Sanchez exchanged point-blank saves as the match progressed. Either could have been named the man of the match. Then in the 90th minute, the sky opened up. While some fans left, Defiance 1636 stayed cheering proudly, along with other fans throughout the stadium. They showed their true colors, they will support this team rain or shine. But in the end, the event mattered more than the result. Even though RIFC is still searching for its first goal and win inside Centreville Stadium, fans, players, and the rest of the team and stadium staff could take pride that the moment they were preparing and waiting for had been a success. While soccer can play out like a storybook, not everyone gets the storybook ending. Rhode Island FC will have been wishing that it secured an action-packed win, but Saturday’s match served as a good introduction into a new chapter for the USL Championship club. Looking over the stadium, you got the sense that this is the way soccer should be (to borrow a phrase from our friends in Maine). Every soccer fan should have a stadium that truly belongs to them and feels like home. For RIFC fans, Centreville Stadium is just that. ReplyShare 3 more comments...TopLatestDiscussionsNo posts Alexander DolanSaturday was a long time coming for Rhode Island FC and its fans this was the opening of Centreville Stadium getting to play in a stadium felt like moving out of your first apartment and into your first home consider becoming a free or paid subscriber The stadium is right on the water and features some slick screens making the impact of their support (or disdain) even greater there are food trucks where fans can also taste some local cuisine cheering loudly with flags and streamers in hand The players entered the pitch to Roman Reigns\u2019 theme music a reference that not a lot of you will get but if you are a wrestling fan you will and also acknowledge that it really sets the scene for a fierce competition RIFC was playing its first match in its true home play simmered to a standstill as both sides began figuring out how to break down their opponents While the team was banged up with eight players injured Rhode Island FC fed off the energy of the fans whether it be the beat of the drum or chanting for the home side Fans even got involved with a wave going throughout the stadium the stadium was not prepared for the number of fans in attendance Lines for bathrooms and concessions were extremely long which left fans the choice of waiting for food and drinks or watching the team play If RIFC expects a capacity crowd for every home game they will need to do a better job of eliminating wait times or the congestion in the concourse The play on the field also left something to be desired While Rhode Island\u2019s press worked wonders against a San Antonio side looking to build out of the back RIFC was unable to take advantage of chances in the final third Clay Holstad launched some bangers and Maxi Rodriguez's header in the second half just brushed by the post but Rhode Island couldn\u2019t find a goal Rodriguez launched a curler in the 80th minute that also was just wide of the net Koke Vegas and Richard Sanchez exchanged point-blank saves as the match progressed Either could have been named the man of the match along with other fans throughout the stadium Even though RIFC is still searching for its first goal and win inside Centreville Stadium and the rest of the team and stadium staff could take pride that the moment they were preparing and waiting for had been a success While soccer can play out like a storybook Rhode Island FC will have been wishing that it secured an action-packed win but Saturday\u2019s match served as a good introduction into a new chapter for the USL Championship club you got the sense that this is the way soccer should be (to borrow a phrase from our friends in Maine) Every soccer fan should have a stadium that truly belongs to them and feels like home Subscribe now (WJAR) — A man was killed in a shooting in Pawtucket Tuesday night Officers responded to the intersection of Bloomingdale Avenue and Humboldt Avenue for a report of shots fired at 5:45 p.m The victim was transported to the hospital Police said they believe the shooting was targeted Police have not released the victim's name Officials said currently no one is in custody Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to contact Pawtucket Police Mayor Dan Grebien echoed that call for information in a statement released on Wednesday afternoon: (WLNE) — Pawtucket police are investigating a now fatal shooting that occurred Tuesday night According to the Pawtucket Police Department, officers responded to calls of shots fired at 5:45 p.m. Tuesday in the area of Bloomingdale Avenue and Humboldt Avenue Arriving officers observed an adult male suffering from apparent gunshot wounds and the victim was transported to a local hospital where he was later pronounced deceased The shooting appears to be a targeted incident and detectives will be investigating the incident further Police have said that there is no ongoing threat to the public Mayor Donald Grebien released the following statement on the shooting: Pawtucket experienced the loss of another young adult which occurred in the vicinity of Bloomingdale and Humbolt Avenues is under investigation by the Pawtucket Police Department Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the police department at 401-727-9100 My administration will continue to work closely with the Pawtucket Police Department and community partners like the Institute for Nonviolence to educate our youth about nonviolence and de-escalation techniques to help prevent future senseless acts of gun violence in our city Pawtucket police ask anyone with information in the incident to contact Detective Douglas Harrington at 401-727-9100, ext. 725 or at dharrington@pawtucket police.com. Detective Kyle Juckett is also working the case and can be contacted at 401-727-9100, ext. 700 or at kjuckett@pawtucketpolice.com (WJAR) — Ahead of its grand opening with its first-ever game on Saturday Centreville Bank Stadium in Pawtucket shared some of its food offerings ranging from Del’s stands to premium lobster rolls the home of the Rhode Island FC will have three walk-in markets and eight food portables across the stadium The food stands will include local favorites such as corned beef sandwiches from Maven’s Delicatessen and clam chowder bread bowl from Chip’s Catch loaded nachos and veggie options will be available as well The three walk-in markets in the stadium have no-contact checkout and customers will be charged with what they walk out with Customers will need to scan their payment method as they walk in and sensors placed throughout the store will track the items they pick up Centreville Bank Stadium officials said three food trucks will also be present near the eastern section of the stadium Stadium General Manager Paul Byrne said it has partnered with local Attleboro Chick-fil-A California Taco Shop and The Guild brewery in Pawtucket for the food trucks The Premium West Club is an exclusive and upscale space that has bars tables and food items offered by the 401 Collective-- the stadium’s hospitality brand Some menu items shared with the press on Wednesday included seared carne asada shrimp alfredo pasta and blueberry shortcake shooters This premium club will have a rotating menu for different events Nine luxury suites are lined up on the west side of the field The first home game for RIFC will be on Saturday Officials said the doors will open two hours before the game and advised visitors to head to the stadium early by LEANNA FAULK following what officials describe as an internal investigation into potential criminal conduct within the fire department City attorney Vincent Ragosta told NBC 10 the investigation uncovered “behavior fully incompatible and contrary to the duties and obligations of sworn firefighters.” “It has elements of all three of those categories,” Ragosta said It impacts operations in the sense that every firefighter is required to be fit and available to perform critical life-saving duties.” No firefighters have been criminally charged at this time The Rhode Island Attorney General’s Office is handling the ongoing criminal investigation the city determined that termination was the appropriate disciplinary action based on the information available strongly disputes the city’s actions and has vowed to take the matter to arbitration Union President Erik Cordeiro called the terminations “unjust” and said all four firefighters who were fired had “impeccable and unblemished service records.” Cordeiro also accused Ragosta of admitting during the pre-deprivation hearings that he withheld evidence and claimed that “the sole evidence that was presented was in the form of text messages from three years ago.” The city fully complied with the dictates of the United States Supreme Court in the so-called Loudermill pre-deprivation hearing process.” He added that the hearing is not a formal evidentiary trial but an opportunity to present general information about the evidence supporting the decision to terminate The city also pushed back on the union’s public statement in a separate written response accusing Cordeiro of demonstrating “inexperience and ignorance of basic principles of labor law.” When asked why more details haven’t been released Ragosta said the city must protect the integrity of the criminal investigation and avoid jeopardizing potential prosecutions “I understand the thirst for information that the public has the city cannot cater to that at this point in time At the appropriate point Ragosta said four chose to retire or resign—one unconditionally and three while applying for retirement—while the remaining four are pursuing arbitration He suggested the resignations are “an indicator” of the seriousness of the allegations NBC 10 reached out to the union multiple times following its press release to request further comment but has not received a response Ragosta said the city continues to meet all minimum and general staffing obligations and will begin the process of filling vacancies “in short order.” “The people of Pawtucket can rest assured—when they call 911 PAWTUCKET − It appears a man was targeted in a deliberate attack before he was shot multiple times and police found him fatally wounded near the junction of Bloomingdale and Humboldt avenues the police said on the morning of April 30 Officers went to the location at 5:45 p.m. for a report of shots fired, according to Pawtucket police The man was pronounced dead later at the hospital according to a spokesman for the office of Mayor Donald R saying that Pawtucket had lost "another young adult "My administration will continue to work closely with the Pawtucket Police Department and community partners like the Institute for Nonviolence to educate our youth about nonviolence and de-escalation techniques to help prevent future senseless acts of gun violence in our city," Grebien said Pawtucket police urge anyone with information to contact Det by ERIN COOGAN (WJAR) — Pawtucket police on Sunday pulled a body from the Seekonk River Police were on the water and along the shoreline opposite the stadium at Tidewater Landing for hours They said they received reports of a possible body in the water at about 5:30 p.m a couple fire trucks and the rescue boat," one witness recalled Then I see them load something into the rescue but besides that the fire department did their job they did everything they were supposed to do." Witnesses at the nearby Festival Pier Boat Launch said Pawtucket police and fire responded taking to the river by boat and combing through foliage along the water's edge Pawtucket police confirmed a body was located and removed from the water between the Interstate 95 bridge and Festival Pier (WJAR) — A crash in Pawtucket caused heavy traffic during the evening commute Wednesday night An NBC 10 photographer saw it on I-95 northbound RIDOT posted on X that the crash involved hazmat and lanes were blocked in the area of Exit 42-A A witness told NBC 10 multiple vehicles were involved NBC 10 has reached out to State Police to find out if anyone was hurt (WJAR) — A man is injured after police say he was assaulted at his home in Pawtucket Wednesday night Police said a resident on Walcott Street opened his door at 9 p.m the four men then stabbed him in the abdomen The victim was transported with non life-threatening injuries Police said it appeared to be a targeted stabbing A spokesperson for the city confirmed that four firefighters were fired and four others either resigned or applied for retirement The nature of the alleged misconduct has not been released City leaders have declined to comment further citing an active criminal investigation in coordination with the Rhode Island Attorney General’s Office NBC 10 News reached out to the mayor’s office We also contacted the fire chief and members of the City Council for more information but did not receive a response saying the city "unjustly terminated four fire fighters without just cause." "All four fire fighters in question had impeccable and unblemished service records with the department," the statement said The union said it would "vigorously defend" the firefighters in arbitration Neighbors said they were stunned by the news and frustrated by the lack of transparency “They’re kind of keeping -- seems like they’re keeping secrets,” said Judy they should know what’s going on in the town.” Judy added that trust in public servants depends on accountability “Anybody that does law enforcement or ambulances they should not be doing drugs or drinking on the job,” she said One resident told NBC 10 that the news left them shocked “That’s another part that I can’t wait to hear more about and why there were so many people involved in it.” Several people also raised concerns about public safety and potential delays in response times who are you going to call?” one resident said The Rhode Island Attorney General’s Office is leading the investigation (WLNE) – Pawtucket Police are investigating after a body was pulled from the Seekonk River over the weekend Officials say they received the call just after 5:30pm on Sunday about a body located along the Seekonk River No further information is available at this time PAWTUCKET — Patrick Munger is an ace in the truest definition The Woonsocket right-handed pitcher halted the Villa Novans’ losing streak before it began. Munger dealt a complete-game performance against Pawtucket and showed why Woonsocket is the team to beat in Division III allowing just three hits and one walk with seven strikeouts in a 7-0 victory on Thursday night at Slater Park Woonsocket (13-1) is in the driver's seat of league play and will be a tough out in a playoff series “I like having all the guys have that trust in me,” Munger said “It just fills me up and makes me work even harder.” Catcher Joe Greenless said: “We've been doing this for a long time He can hit his spots really well and I set him up.” Woonsocket handed Munger a 2-0 lead before he took the mound against Pawtucket and that’s all the junior needed The Villa Novans broke the game open in the fifth inning on Jullian DeJesus’ two-out This season has been quite the turnaround for Woonsocket after a 4-14 mark last spring A championship run would halt a 39-year title drought for the Villa Novans after winning the 1986 crown There was just one title handed out back then and Woonsocket beat Tiverton “He’s hitting his spots really well recently,” DeJesus said of Munger ‘We’re playing really well and we love to see him on the mound It’s not hard to see where the improvements have come from for Woonsocket has allowed just one earned run with 26 strikeouts against one walk and Braylon Guilbeault also have been excellent on the bump in limited work “We just need to keep hitting the ball and keep playing with an intensity,” Greenless said “Keep the energy up and keep playing as hard as we can.” an 11-6 defeat to Exeter-West Greenwich on Tuesday EWG built a 9-0 lead before Woonsocket got on the board But Woonsocket’s fix was to keep the approach simple in the box Greenless set the table with a single and Chris Bousquet walked Greenless scored on a sacrifice fly by Noah Levreault and Munger drove in Bousquet from second on a single through the left side “I don't think we performed our best [against EWG] and I think today really showed what we can really do,” Munger said We just didn't really get the hits and our defense was a little rough Woonsocket is rocking a 179-35 run differential through its 14 games this season The Villa Novans are also punching above their weight class with two wins over Division II’s Burrillville Munger tossed another complete game in the first win over Burrillville with six strikeouts Guilbeault went the distance in the second contest against the Broncos and snagged an 8-3 win on the road Both victories help immensely in Woonsocket’s RPI standing as they have all but locked up the top seed in the playoffs “We’ve just got to keep working at practice and keep getting to it every day,” Munger said keep playing defense and trusting our guys .. (WJAR) — Police blocked off all lanes on I-95 southbound in Pawtucket Monday night after a woman threatened to jump from an overpass Officials closed the lanes shortly before 7:30 p.m a woman threatened to jump from the overpass on Lonsdale at Comstock to the interstate Officers said she was transported to the hospital for an evaluation who previously had been convicted of murder was arrested after a narcotics investigation on Monday they conducted a search at an address on North Bend Street after an investigation involving cocaine and fentanyl distribution throughout the city Police said they found and seized two firearms 20 grams of cocaine and other distribution material was arrested and charged with manufacturing/ delivery/ possession of fentanyl manufacturing/ delivery/ possession of cocaine two counts of possession of a firearm while in possession of controlled substance two counts of possession of firearm by a convicted felon and additional firearms charges Pawtucket police said Cousin has previously been convicted of second-degree murder of a 10-year-old in Massachusetts and served around 21 years in prison Cousin was arraigned and held without bail (WLNE) — The City of Pawtucket said eight Pawtucket firefighters are no longer with the department after an investigation into violations of rules and regulations the firefighters were engaged in “possible criminal activity resulting in violations of the public trust.” four firefighters were fired and four decided to resign or file for retirement The Rhode Island Attorney General’s Office and the City of Pawtucket are conducting a criminal investigation into the matter The City of Pawtucket said it is unable to give additional information due to the ongoing investigation A spokesperson for the Attorney General’s Office also declined to provide further comment because of the ongoing investigation The City of Pawtucket released the following statement: “The City of Pawtucket Human Resources Department in coordination with the Pawtucket Fire Department and the Pawtucket Police Department has concluded an internal investigation into 8 Pawtucket firefighters for violations of the Rules and Regulations of the Pawtucket Fire Department That investigation has determined that these firefighters engaged in possible criminal activity resulting in violations of the public trust 4 firefighters have been terminated by the City effective today and 4 have chosen to resign and/or apply for retirement in lieu of taking part in the pre-termination hearing process We are unable to comment further at this time due to an ongoing criminal investigation being conducted in coordination with the Rhode Island Attorney General’s Office While these matters are serious and remain under investigation it is important to emphasize that the actions of these firefighters do not reflect the dedication or professionalism of the Fire Department as a whole we want to reassure our residents that thanks to the standards and procedures the Pawtucket Fire Department has in place The Fire Department is committed to providing a high level of care while maintaining full fire and emergency response services to our community.” the Pawtucket firefighters’ union said: the City of Pawtucket unjustly terminated four fire fighters without just cause All four fire fighters in question had impeccable and unblemished service records with the department During their pre-deprivation hearings the city’s hired attorney Vincent Ragosta willingly expressed he withheld evidence that the city was using to support their ill-guided terminations the sole evidence that was presented was in the form of text messages from three years ago Ragosta to make such a ridiculous statement like “I have seen cases that are very atrocious in terms of behavior but I haven’t seen anything to this degree or this extent” is beyond comprehension The binding arbitration process protects our membership from this form of ill-advised and unjust terminations The Union will vigorously defend the wrongfully terminated fire fighters in the arbitration arena we will most certainly not present our case Pawtucket Fire Fighters have always and without question will continue to provide the residents of the city with the professionalism and expertise they deserve Our unwavering commitment to public safety is second to none (WJAR) — Centreville Bank scores a victory as it wins the naming rights to Tidewater Landing Stadium in Pawtucket The soccer stadium is the home for the Rhode Island Football Club The multi-year deal for the naming rights was announced Tuesday afternoon Centreville Bank Stadium President and CEO Hal Horvat couldn't be any happier This is something we've been working on for quite some time It's part of our strategic growth initiative and we're just so happy to be here in Pawtucket," said Horvat "We think this is going to be great for the state of Rhode Island for many many years to come." The reveal for the now Centreville Bank Stadium happened in the center of the field following a video presentation of the journey to the big moment Rhode Island FC will play against San Antonio FC at 4 p.m The 10,500-seat stadium will welcome thousands of soccer fans for the home opening game Thousands of fans also mean lots of cheering for Rhode Island FC Rhode Island FC Head Coach Khano Smith said while it will be a monumental moment "At some point I'm going to try and stop and smell the flowers and take it all in but it's going to be incredibly difficult to do so with the energy in the building," said Smith I'm incredibly fortunate to be in this position I don't take it lightly and hopefully something I never forget." Rhode Island FC Forward Noah Fuson said all he and his team can think about is the home opener and what a special day it's going to be we're living for this moment," said Fuson since they brought the project to us and told us about it we've been counting down the days and the fact that it's this close is really special." Horvat hopes to see a packed stadium for the home opener "Rhode Island hasn't had an opening day like that in almost forever It's taking over the world and we're just really excited about being a part of that," said Horvat Pawtucket Mayor Don Grebien said the city is in the process of planning for traffic and transportation "We're preparing for the traffic We've worked out a great parking plan for capacity with their company.. listen there's going to be some logistical stuff as there always is but we feel very confident that we mitigated that..." Grebien said there are conversations about shuttle buses to and from the games But the City and Police are in the middle of building their parking plan to "protect residents." "We're doing a resident parking only where there will be signage up there for residents parking only Police will be out there enforcing it on event days and towing to protect them," said Grebien "So residents who are living there will all get a permit pass .. so they're [resident-only permits] in the process Grebien said there would be enough parking for 5,000 vehicles Grebien also said the City is partnering with RIPTA for additional transportation that day "We're working with the Rhode Island FC Club to designate lots throughout the area to the school committee has it on their agenda to approve So we wanted to make sure that were identifying enough locations and enough spots." "We're working very closely both Rhode Island FC We're talking about with our commuter rail station making sure they have transportation." While Centreville Bank Stadium is a soccer stadium Grebien said there will be other events held at the stadium like concerts and a Fireworks show in early July we're focused on soccer because they've got the schedule They've got a couple of other events that are going to be coming in," said Grebien it's going to be an active venue." Horvat announced that Rhode Island FC and Centreville Bank will offer a limited number of $4.01 tickets to all Rhode Island FC home games The tickets pay homage to the Ocean State’s 401 area code and the partnership of the bank and Rhode Island FC The tickets are only available to Rhode Island residents Centreville Bank says fan can also get seats for Rhode Island FC's homecoming at $16.36 per game with the purchase of a single-game ticket email tickets@RhodeIslandFC.com or call 401-955-RIFC (WJAR) — An undisclosed number of Pawtucket firefighters are facing disciplinary action A spokesperson said a "pre-deprivation" hearing was held Wednesday for the firefighters That hearing typically provides city employees with the opportunity to plead their case amidst accusations The spokesperson said the firefighters are on administrative leave with pay Vincent Ragosta, a lawyer working for the city, told the NBC 10 I-Team that the firefighters' alleged actions are "completely inconsistent with the safety sensitive nature of fire suppression and delivering emergency medical services." But Ragosta said the allegations involve "several" firefighters who are currently employed and appeared for the hearing and others who opted to cease their employment Officials said the investigation is ongoing The city said no other information will be released until it becomes publicly available at a later date NBC 10's Erin Coogan and Brian Crandall contributed to this report (WJAR) — Pawtucket police said a vehicle fled after being involved in a rollover crash on Tuesday the crash on Capital Street occurred at around 7:50 a.m A vehicle pulling out on the street struck a vehicle turning right onto Capital Street from Main Street Officials said this caused the turning vehicle to roll on its side Surveillance video shared with NBC 10 News shows the moment of the collision Pawtucket police said the operator of the overturned car was taken to an area hospital for minor injuries PAWTUCKET – Eight Pawtucket firefighters are off the job after an internal investigation determined they "engaged in possible criminal activity resulting in violations of the public trust," the City of Pawtucket said in a statement Tuesday afternoon and four others resigned or applied for retirement instead of taking part in a pre-termination hearing process The city has not provided details of the allegations and said it could not "comment further at this time due to an ongoing criminal investigation being conducted in coordination with the Rhode Island Attorney General's Office." Meanwhile, the firefighters union says the firefighters were "unjustly" fired and that it will go to arbitration over the issue "All four fire fighters in question had impeccable and unblemished service records with the department," Union President Erik Cordeiro said in a press release Hearings were held for several firefighters last Wednesday The hearings followed an investigation by the city's human resources department in coordination with the police and fire departments The only evidence the city presented at the hearings "was in the form of text messages from three years ago," Cordeiro said we have binding arbitration," Cordeiro said "The binding arbitration process protects our membership from this form of ill-advised and unjust terminations The union will vigorously defend the wrongfully terminated firefighters in the arbitration arena." "We want to reassure our residents that thanks to the standards and procedures the Pawtucket Fire Department has in place The Fire Department is committed to providing a high level of care while maintaining full fire and emergency response services to our community." "While these matters are serious and remain under investigation or professionalism of the Fire Department as a whole," the city said "Pawtucket Fire Fighters have always and without question will continue to provide the residents of the city with the professionalism and expertise they deserve Our unwavering commitment to public safety is second to none." The firefighters union represents 152 men and women (WJAR) — The days of minor league baseball in Pawtucket are long gone with the anticipation of a new unified high school being built in its place NBC 10 has learned that students are going to have to wait a little longer than expected to start attending the new state of the art facility "It's really sad to watch," McCoy Stadium neighbor Joe Magill said It's right there and I don't want to look." under the light as an official groundbreaking ceremony was held at the old McCoy stadium to celebrate the commencement of demolition "That stadium has been a part of all of our lives," Magill continued "I have 12 brothers and sisters and that stadium was like the heart and soul." It is now a part of a massive $326 million project to convert the unused facility into a new unified Pawtucket high school "We're saying between 5 years," Pawtucket Mayor Don Grebien told NBC 10 "I think everybody is taking the precaution The plan is to merge the student populations from both Sheat and Tolman high schools together "I'm sure there will be problems I'm sure the city will work with everyone and straighten it out," another neighbor "We've been rivals forever," added Magill "Now you're going to put them all together it's going to be crazy." And already standing as the state's most financially ambitious school project to date some local leaders admit-- with a few years of inflation still to accommodate for as well as the current ever-changing climate of worldwide tariffs-- costs may be higher than anticipated "There is some concern," Mayor Grebien continued "But there are also some dollars in previous bonds." Artistic renderings of the new Pawtucket High school show a sprawling 375,000-square foot campus ready to accommodate some 2,100 students Equipped with a state of the art media center local residents say the project marks a new chapter with for generations of Pawtucket students and families to come you can only go forward," Hutton concluded " If it's it's not baseball we're thinking it's the only place in the city we can have it." the city says several environmental and residential safeguards are now in place to mitigate any potential demolition impacts on nearby residents Demolition of the former stadium is scheduled to run from early April through June.