PROVIDENCE, R.I. – “Our city faces a housing crisis. There is no one cause for that crisis, and there will not be one solution. But one clear factor is the number of college campuses that are bleeding into our neighborhoods, creating pressure on current housing stock. We need to do what we can to preserve housing for our residents and to maintain our neighborhoods. Despite the city’s efforts to hold developers accountable through fines, inspections, and other restrictions, we continue to see noise and public safety matters connected to overcrowded student rental properties throughout our city.

The ordinance amendment was proposed to spark conversation about a new path forward. We cannot continue to allow property owners to disrupt neighborhoods and the housing market. These issues are not being addressed, and the impact on too many families is not getting the visibility it deserves.

I am committed to an open government, and I appreciate the many people who are stepping forward to share their views. I have asked for the public hearing process on this ordinance to remain open so that we might hear more from residents, owners, and students, examine more data, and explore all options to ensure we are doing all we can to preserve our housing stock and the strength of our neighborhoods for the families of Providence.”