Issue link: https://nebusinessmedia.uberflip.com/i/1515257
12 Harding Green The Canal District: Rebirth and Revitalization During the latter years of the 20th century, the Canal District remained relatively dormant, devoid of the vibrancy and life that once existed there. Storefronts remained vacant, apartments sat empty and traffic passed through on the way to other destinations. But the area was under observation and destined for rebirth. In the late 1980s, Worcester native Dino Lorusso was working for Henry Grace Plumbing Supply on Harding Street. He became enamored with the district; and when the owner retired and closed the plumbing business, Lorusso decided to buy the building, retaining the first floor for retail sales and subdividing the top floor into apartments. But he had bigger plans in mind. A walking district Lorusso was well aware of the vacant buildings and abandoned businesses in the Water/Harding/Green Streets area and aimed to bring back the former energy. His daily walks through the neighborhood brought him past the shuttered Crompton Loom Works, which had been built in 1860 and which had been vacant for more than 20 years. The building might have seemed beyond saving, but not to Lorusso. He envisioned restoring life to the historic structure and creating a walking district, bustling with residents, restaurants, shops and enter- tainment venues. "Water, Harding and Green Streets provide the perfect grid," he said. "From Union Station to Route 290, the area lends itself to walking." As this plan simmered in his mind, Lorusso scheduled a tour of the structure, which had no electricity, a leaking roof and a crumbling interior. Birds had nested on the top floor after gaining entry through holes in the roof and some walls had incurred water damage. In spite of the dreadful condition, he saw potential and decided to buy the building. Thus began an extensive renovation process. One of the first orders of business was to replace 250 windows that had been boarded up. Another item on the agen- da was removing the fencing that enclosed much of the neighborhood. "We took down miles and miles of barbed wire," Lorusso said. The renovations required hundreds of man hours, sig- nificant financial investment and lots of patience. But in "Hopefully, the Worcester Public Market will be an extension of the authentic, small businesses within Crompton Place, where customers can enjoy engaging with the makers, meeting the owners and being a part of helping community and the local economy grow and thrive." – Avra A. Hoffman, co-owner, Birch Tree Bread Company "I think Harding Green is going to bring even more business to the area, and more people living down here; that too is going to contribute to increased foot traffic and greater sales. I see that as a good thing. And I love the concept of a host of ethnic food booths being in that public market. I'm very much for that vibe and homage to the diverse culture here in Worcester." – Nicole DiCello, owner Bedlam Book Cafe "The Canal District has so much to offer, more than just affordable housing. There are lots of fun things to do. When the Worcester Public Market opens, even more people will come." – Dino Lorusso, owner and developer, Crompton Place