PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — Dozens of concerned tenants at the historic Atlantic Mills in Providence voiced their concerns Wednesday night about the future of their home following the news of a potential new buyer.

Atlantic Mills, a long-standing landmark from the late 1800s, has driven local economic development for decades and currently functions as a studio and commercial space.

Now, several local artists, vendors and business owners, including flameworking glass artist Jenine Bressner, are fighting to save the Manton Avenue building from the potential negative effects of new ownership.

“It’s been very stable and very affordable,” Bressner said, having rented a studio at Atlantic Mills for nearly 20 years. “That’s why it’s even more important that a place like this is protected because the city benefits tremendously from our contribution to this place.

Magdy G. Bader, owner of Omar & Olneyville Discount Furniture and a tenant for three decades, fears the sale could impact hundreds of workers.

“If this building is being sold, two thousand people will be unemployed in Rhode Island. I hope the mayor is listening,” Bader explained. “I already spoke to him and he promised me [the city is] not kicking anybody out.”

Atlantic Mills was relisted on the market for $5 million in August after failed negotiations with the city, according to the Providence Preservation Society .

“I’m shocked,” artist Kobe Jackson said of the potential sale. “This building has been the definition of Providence for me.”

Josh Estrella, a city spokesperson, told 12 News that Mayor Brett Smiley has reached out to the potential buyer.

“[The buyer] has assured the city that the existing leases will remain well below market rates, and the buyer has no intention to convert the Atlantic Mills into residential use,” Estrella wrote in a statement.

12 News also contacted Eric Edelman, the potential buyer of Atlantic Mills, who said he plans to keep its existing tenants. Edelman mentioned that, if an agreement is reached with the current owners, his focus will be on building improvements. Instead of increasing rates, he also intends to lease vacant spaces and continue to boost economic development.

In the meantime, a petition launched in early October to halt the sale of and preserve the Olneyville staple has garnered nearly 1,500 signatures.

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