RI PowerPlayer: Evan Granoff
Monday, May 13, 2013
Every Monday, GoLocal shines the spotlight on one individual who is making an impact on Rhode Island. This week, GoLocal sat down with developer Evan Granoff to talk about his current and future plans.
Tell us, Evan -- what are your priorities for 2013? Clearly, the redevelopment of the Arcade must be high on your list.
My first priority is to establish the Arcade as a major "destination retail" and thriving residential community in RI. Following that, I'd like to find a time period where I can take a week off to spend time with my family on vacation...and then identify my next project!
Take us through a bit of your history as a developer.
A lot of work I have done is with redeveloping historic buildings - they are all so different from each other. You can't take a cookie-cutter approach - you need to figure out what works best for each of them. I like the Hampton Inn project that I did with First Bristol Corp., across the street from the Arcade. We were able to create a drive-through entrance, in between the two sections of the building, to the parking lot area to help with traffic and so that guests can unload in an area that is off the street. This is a great example of adaptive use of a historic building.
GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLASTMaking these properties economically viable again is a top priority for me. Channeling the financial district into a new infrastructure of arts and education based economy is also key to the success of downtown Providence. The Arcade project has become successful because the public has really supported it - everyone has an Arcade story or memory. The micro-lofts appeal to so many different types of people - recent graduates, professors, hospital workers who commute to Providence from elsewhere. The micro-retail is carefully curated to showcase local businesses whose focus is on style, design, fashion, and the arts. We haven't accepted any chains - these are small Rhode Island based businesses, and I think entrepreneurs appreciate this approach to our retail plan. Local people have an affordable place to expand their business and open a second location, or a first location for some.
What does a day in Evan Granoff's life look like?
I wake up at 5:30 am without an alarm. First I walk the dogs and throw a frisbee around for them. In the winter it is still dark at this time of day but the dogs manage to catch it anyway.
Next I'll head to the gym or take a bike ride if the weather is nice. From there, I will head to the job site - right now, it is the Arcade. I'll do a walk through, get up to speed with what is happening for the day, and usually attend meetings. I will check in at the office - voicemail, check my email (only once for the day!), and return calls.
After spending the day in Providence, I will head home to Bristol to have dinner with my wife Elizabeth. If its nice out, we'll eat early so I can ride my mountain bike, go sailing, or fishing..but I won't tell you where I fish. In colder weather, we might cross country ski. I'll often Skype with my kids, who live all over the place, or work on some personal projects or hobbies. Right now I'm converting an old kerosene stove to propane..hopefully I'm successful!
What are some of the challenges you face as a developer?
Getting people to see that Providence is in a transitional economic phase and that it is changing from a city whose workforce heads home at 5:00 pm to a vibrant live-work-play community where people spend time. The Arcade project is great timing for this - we are overwhelmed by the public support for the micro-lofts and micro-retail community. We are looking forward to opening this summer.
Tell us something that hardly anyone knows about you.
I love working with my hands and repairing things. Old British engines fascinate me. I have four Seagull outboards (3 for parts, 1 that runs!), a Leyland diesel, and an old Triumph car."
OK -- now for the lightning round!
Role Model: Benjamin Franklin is my favorite historical figure. He was one of the greatest Americans and has so many fantastic quotes. He was so far ahead of the curve for his time, and his curiosity is inspiring. He really pursued the things that interested him."
Best Beach: I love Mansion Beach on Block Island.
Favorite Restaurant: It is a toss up between Al Forno and Persimmons in Bristol. Both have exceptional service and unbelievable food.
Recent books: Collection of Robert Louis Stevenson short stories, and A Higher Call, which is a great nonfiction book about a WWII bomber and a fighter who interact in an unexpected way."
