by Council Staff | Oct 22, 2024 | Uncategorized
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Amended plan provides a forward-thinking framework for growth; addresses housing, homelessness, climate, affordability, and design
Providence, RI – Tonight, City Council’s Committee on Ordinances approved the Comprehensive Plan, the city’s ten-year roadmap for land use and growth, with a series of transformative amendments from Councilors. This was the fifth Council-hosted public hearing on the Comp Plan. The approved amendments tackle key policy areas, including housing affordability, environmental justice, preserving neighborhood character, increasing sustainable infrastructure, and uplifting our most vulnerable communities. Crafted with input from community members who attended public meetings and submitted hundreds of letters of testimony, the amended Comp Plan demonstrates the Council’s commitment to chart a visionary people-first course for growth and development.
The steps taken tonight build on previously approved amendments, including Councilor Justin Roias’ strikethrough of language seemingly endorsing the relocation of the RIPTA bus hub, and Councilman John Goncalves’ prohibition of new gas station development. New language to the gas station prohibition was added tonight, providing an exception if land is unsuitable for residential development. A subsequent Zoning Ordinance will formally enact many of these amendments, providing necessary, effective, and long-term solutions for the people of Providence.
The amended version of the Comp Plan will go to the full Council for first passage at the November 7th regular Council meeting. Key amendments with quotes from lead Councilors can be found below, with additions highlighted. You can view the full redlined, amended Comprehensive Plan HERE. |
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INCLUSIONARY ZONING AND ANTI-DISPLACEMENT MEASURES
Council is committed to ensuring that Providence residents can remain in their neighborhoods without being priced out. As such, Council will take a people-first approach to both increase affordable housing stock and prevent displacement. New provisions include advocating for tenant protections for renters, studies to identify areas with high displacement risk, and, most importantly, a plan for inclusionary zoning. Inclusionary zoning is a key tool to ensure new developments set aside affordable units, with necessary subsidies allocated to make the policy feasible. This policy, proven effective in cities across the country, will help meet the high demand for affordable units in Providence. The new language in the amended Comp Plan, introduced by Council President Rachel Miller, will align with a future ordinance to enact this policy.
“Right now, rent and homeownership are untenable for Providence residents across income brackets,” said Council President Rachel Miller (Ward 13). “If we’re serious about stopping the cycle of displacement, we have to make affordability the rule, not the exception. That’s why we’re working towards inclusionary zoning — it’s a proven tool to fight gentrification, promote economically diverse neighborhoods, and build a fair, affordable housing market. By making sure developers set aside affordable units, we ensure that the working families can stay in the neighborhoods they call home.”
New language in the Housing Chapter Opportunities Commitment section reads:
“In addition to these strategies informed by the Anti-Displacement and Comprehensive Housing Strategy study, the City will prioritize supplementary anti-displacement strategies such as inclusionary zoning, securing protections for those at-risk of displacement, and proactively monitoring affordable units to ensure long-term residents of Providence are not displaced. The City is committed to ensuring gentrification and displacement do not characterize Providence in the face of increased development as it has in and many other cities. Instead, the City will balance a steady growth of housing supply while protecting its residents who want to continue living in the capital city.”
Additions to Housing Chapter Objective H2 include:
M. Continue to support and establish new programs that encourage developers to build housing that is affordable to all, including by evaluating the market feasibility of adopting inclusionary zoning measures that are calibrated with tax and subsidy policy changes to enhance development feasibility.
T. Work with Community Development Corporations (CDCs) to conduct an analysis of displacement risk across the city to understand which neighborhoods are most vulnerable and ensure they are prioritized for affordable housing development.
U. Advocate for stronger tenant protections for renters who are defined as being the most vulnerable to displacement.
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REDUCE OR ELIMINATE PARKING MINIMUMS
Required parking minimums drive up housing costs, underutilize valuable parcels of land, and deter developers from building housing. Council has approved updated language, introduced by Council President Miller, to prioritize the reduction and elimination of parking minimums. Developers already lack a profit motive to build affordable units, and noncompliance fees for parking minimums further disincentivize affordable housing construction. Removing this requirement wherever possible is crucial to effectively expand affordable housing stock, while decreasing reliance on personal vehicles. This step reaffirms Council’s dual commitments to expand affordable housing and promote climate-conscious transportation options.
“We need to break down the barriers that stifle our growth,” said Council President Rachel Miller (Ward 13). “A key example of this is outdated parking minimums, which have tied our hands and limited our potential. Reducing and eliminating parking minimums cuts through the red tape that slows affordable housing construction. This is a smart, necessary step that will free land for better use and incentivize developers to build the homes we clearly need. We cannot have concrete plots sitting unused.”
Changes to Land Use Chapter under Objective LU12 (with similar changes to LU2) include:
B. Reduce or eliminate off-street parking requirements in areas where high-density housing is permitted for appropriate development types and in appropriate zones, in coordination with management and enforcement of on-street parking and implementation of transportation demand management measures.
C. Ensure that parking regulations strike a balance between the demand for parking and the ability to develop land to its fullest potential by reducing parking minimums.
CD. Prioritize the elimination of parking minimums wherever feasible.
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PROTECTIONS FOR THE PROVIDENCE PORT AND SOUTH SIDE RESIDENTS
For generations, the area in and around the Providence Port has been a dumping ground for heavy industries, endangering the health, safety, and well-being of South Side residents. Council moved to approve language, introduced by Majority Leader Pedro Espinal, that prompts the city to prohibit power plants dependent on fossil fuel combustion, noxious or toxic chemical manufacturing, and ethylene oxide manufacturing and storage in M2 and W3 zones. The new language encourages expansion of sustainable infrastructure in these areas to ensure our waterways are utilized without harming the environment or surrounding communities. The specific prohibitions will be made in the forthcoming zoning ordinance.
“For far too long, South Side residents have suffered due to inadequate environmental regulation in the Port of Providence,” said Majority Leader Pedro Espinal (Ward 10). “Responsible development of the port both ensures our city’s economic future and protects the well-being of our communities. We’ll keep working hard to protect our residents and prioritize environmental justice.”
In the Land Use Chapter, “How Do We Grow” section, the following changes were made (with the same language for W3 zones):
In the General Industrial District, M-2, the city shall prohibit the following future uses: power generation plants dependent on the combustion of fossil fuels or via processes that produce emissions at levels that are established to impact public health, noxious or toxic chemical manufacturing, and ethylene oxide manufacturing and storage facilities. Via the city zoning ordinance, the city may prohibit future industrial uses in the General Industrial District, M-2, that it determines go against the public interest of (a) public health and quality of life in near-industry neighborhoods or (b) realizing fossil fuel emissions reduction goals in response to climate change, and will encourage future industrial uses that promote environmentally just development and a just transition for workers currently maintaining fossil fuel dependent infrastructure and industry.
Future M-2 prohibited industrial uses may include, but are not limited to:
• Facilities that import, store, process, or distribute fossil fuels
• Facilities that import, store, manufacture, or distribute flammable, hazardous, or explosive chemicals or waste products
• Facilities that generate or result in harmful air pollution emissions
• Facilities that produce high carbon emissions or import and distribute high carbon content products
• Facilities that generate water pollution, including both point source and stormwater runoff pollution
This section shall not apply to publicly owned treatment works.
Future M-2 encouraged industrial uses include, but are not limited to:
• Offshore wind development and associated activities
• Solar electricity generation
• Battery energy storage facilities
• Microgrid infrastructure
• Electric infrastructure for “ship to shore” plug-in power and charging electric zero-emission trucks
• Food and commercial goods import, storage, and distribution that can be run on zero-emission electrical infrastructure
• Vocational education facilities to support workforce development for a just transition to a green economy
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STRATEGIES TO REACH ZERO CARBON EMISSIONS
Spearheaded by Deputy Majority Whip Sue AnderBois, Council approved substantial language changes to increase urgency and outline specific strategies to address the climate crisis. These new provisions will drive the city forward to meet its zero carbon emissions goals and increase investment in resiliency. Changes include enforcement of anti-idling regulations, cross-agency support for the Providence Tree Plan, incorporation of stormwater mitigation in all streetscape projects, prioritizing safe active transportation options, and intensified efforts to make all municipal buildings carbon neutral by 2040. Climate-focused additions also emphasize the importance of ensuring frontline communities disproportionately impacted by climate change are at the forefront of designing solutions.
“Every issue, from housing to street safety, is intertwined with climate,” said Deputy Majority Whip Sue AnderBois (Ward 3). “These amendments are proactive steps to build a future where all of us can thrive. We’ve created a roadmap for a just transition to clean energy, expanded active transportation options, and improved, resilient infrastructure, all while ensuring those most impacted have a seat at the table. The bold, decisive actions outlined in this plan will allow Providence to successfully meet its carbon neutrality goals and secure a strong, sustainable future for generations to come.”
Language was added throughout the plan, with some key changes including:
In the Sustainability Chapter under Objective SRE1:
E. Incorporate stormwater mitigation and management into all streetscape projects.
In the Sustainability Chapter under Objective SRE2:
K. Support the implementation of the Providence Tree Plan and promote private and non-profit planting efforts that increase canopy coverage, especially in low-canopy neighborhoods. Partner across various municipal agencies to prevent disruptions to existing infrastructure (sidewalks, roads, etc) so that any trees the trees that planted can be sustained and grow, without causing mobility challenges for residents.
N. Expand and facilitate use of alternative non-carbon fuels and improve traffic circulation to reduce emissions and improve air quality. Prioritize development of non-car transportation options (biking, walking, scooting, etc) to eliminate emissions and improve air quality.
In the Sustainability Chapter under Objective SRE4:
F. Continue to pursue weatherization, energy efficiency, and electrification at City-owned facilities and in work to comply with the City Ordinance requiring all municipal buildings to be carbon neutral by 2040.
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PROTECTED RIGHTS AND DIGNITY FOR UNHOUSED RESIDENTS
Under the leadership of Majority Whip Miguel Sanchez, the committee approved additional language to ensure future city policies addressing homelessness and encampments follow guidelines outlined by the US Interagency on Homelessness. New language underscores the necessity for compassionate, humane, and housing-first solutions, which may include temporary use permits for emergency shelters, improved outreach and services to encampments, increased access to mental health and substance use treatment, and the development of permanent housing options. In the wake of the Supreme Court’s decision permitting the criminalization of homelessness, this approach pushes back against punitive measures and is informed by public health best practices.
“Every Providence resident deserves to live with dignity,” said Majority Whip Miguel Sanchez (Ward 6). “This is especially true of our most vulnerable, unhoused residents. We firmly reject the notion that criminalization and punishment are effective solutions. Providence has a chance to lead by showing what real compassion looks like – finding solutions that lift people up, rather than kick them while they’re down. This plan sets us on a path to help every resident build a better life, no matter their circumstances.”
In the Housing Chapter, under Objective H3 changes include:
J. Ensure that all city policies addressing homelessness and homelessness encampments on public property follow the guidelines outlined by the US Interagency Council on Homelessness.
K. Adopt policies supporting the City’s unhoused residents including but not limited to providing temporary use permits for emergency shelters, improving outreach and social services to encampments, developing permanent housing options, ensuring access to mental health and substance use treatments, or other innovative solutions in housing, safety, and public health. |
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NEW COMMITTEE FOR NEIGHBORHOOD DESIGN STANDARDS
As the Council prioritizes increasing housing stock, it has approved a plan, introduced by Councilwoman Helen Anthony, to ensure that new developments reflect the architectural strengths of Providence’s neighborhoods. The approved additions include the creation of a committee to develop and enforce design standards, common in many other cities, to guide development while not adversely impacting cost or timelines. The proposed committee would be comprised of community stakeholders, developers, architects, and designers.
“Providence’s rich culture and history are visible in the built environment all around us,” said Councilwoman Helen Anthony (Ward 2). “As we work to create more housing, it’s important that new developments enhance our neighborhoods, and don’t just encourage cheap, generic design. This new committee will help offer a greater voice to residents who care deeply about the future of their city and its thoughtful growth.”
In the Land Use Chapter under Objective LU9, changes include:
C. Strengthen design regulations in residential and neighborhood commercial areas to promote a high-quality built environment, while ensuring new design regulations do not unnecessarily increase the cost of development or make the development review process less efficient or unpredictable.
F. Establish an ad hoc committee to advise on the creation of design regulations. The committee should include developers, architects and designers, and community stakeholders.
G. Conduct staff and board level design review processes to ensure compliance with new design regulations.
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by Council Staff | Oct 18, 2024 | Uncategorized
The resolution was referred to the Committee on Finance
Providence, RI – At the October 17 City Council meeting, Council President Rachel Miller introduced a resolution in support of new conditional funding for Providence Public School District (PPSD). Last week, Superintendent Dr. Javier Montañez requested millions of dollars in additional funding, warning of cuts to student bus passes, sports programs, and more if the request was not fulfilled. In the middle of the budget year, the district gave the City 24 hours to respond. This request comes after Council secured the largest boost to PPSD’s annual budget in at least 15 years earlier this year. Councilors share Mayor Brett Smiley’s serious concerns about the district’s fiscal management practices. The resolution aligns with the Administrations conditions for allocating an additional $1 million: a thorough third-party audit of the district and a proportional increase in state funding. The resolution was referred to the Committee on Finance.
Last Thursday evening, several Councilors released statements on this issue:
Council President Rachel Miller (Ward 13):
“This year, City Council advocated for and passed the largest budget increase for Providence Public Schools in decades. The council is deeply committed to supporting teachers, students, and parents while responsibly managing taxpayer dollars. Financial information shared by PPSD with the Council has created grave misgivings about PPSD’s fiscal management policies. I am in full support of allocating an additional $1M of unanticipated funds to PPSD on the condition of a thorough independent audit of district finances and a proportional increase in state funding. We’re committed to doing our part; it’s time for the district and the state to do theirs.”
President Pro Tempore Juan Pichardo (Ward 9):
“Our schools are the backbone of this city, and every dollar we invest in them should be treated with the highest level of care. City Council stepped up with historic levels of funding for the district because we believe in our students’ potential, but these funds must be used in a transparent, accountable, and fiscally responsible way. Today, that doesn’t seem to be the case. From the district, we need an independent audit; and from the state, we need a clear commitment to make a proportional contribution. Providence students, families, and educators deserve the support they need to thrive, and Council will continue to do its part.”
Majority Whip Miguel Sanchez (Ward 6):
“Let’s be clear: the district’s fiscal irresponsibility is causing a crisis for our students. Using children’s sports teams and bus passes as bargaining chips is outrageous and completely unacceptable. To access additional city funding, they must commit to cleaning up their financial mess. No more blank checks. The district needs to face an audit and prove it will be responsible with money that is supposed to benefit our kids. Our city, and the students that make it great, deserve better.”
At tonight’s meeting, Council granted first passage to an ordinance introduced by Councilwoman Shelley Peterson (Ward 14), which would require property owners to annually register local property managers for dwellings with six or more units. The Department of Inspections and Standards would administer the registration form, and property owners would face fines for noncompliance. This ordinance seeks to protect the quality of life for residents and promote public safety in our neighborhoods. Council will vote on second passage at the next meeting on November 7th.
Councilors passed several resolutions, including:
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Los Concejales Introducen una Resolución Apoyando un Aumento Condicional de Fondos para las Escuelas Públicas de Providence
La resolución fue referida al Comité de Finanzas
Providence, RI – En la reunión del Concejo Municipal del 17 de octubre, la presidenta del Concejo Rachel Miller presentó una resolución en apoyo a nuevos fondos condicionales para el Distrito de Escuelas Públicas de Providence (PPSD). La semana pasada, el superintendente Dr. Javier Montañez solicitó millones de dólares en fondos adicionales, advirtiendo sobre recortes a los pases de autobús para estudiantes, programas deportivos y más si la solicitud no se cumplía. En medio del año fiscal, el distrito le dio a la Ciudad 24 horas para responder. Esta solicitud se produce después de que el Concejo asegurara el mayor aumento en el presupuesto anual de PPSD en al menos 15 años a principios de este año. Los concejales comparten las serias preocupaciones del Alcalde Brett Smiley sobre las prácticas de gestión fiscal del distrito. La resolución está alineada con las condiciones de la administración para asignar un millón de dólares adicionales: una auditoría exhaustiva de terceros del distrito y un aumento proporcional en la financiación estatal. La resolución fue referida al Comité de Finanzas.
El jueves pasado por la noche, varios concejales emitieron declaraciones sobre este tema:
Presidenta del Concejo Rachel Miller (Distrito 13):
“Este año, el Concejo Municipal abogó y aprobó el mayor aumento de presupuesto para las Escuelas Públicas de Providence en décadas. El Concejo está profundamente comprometido a apoyar a maestros, estudiantes y padres, mientras gestiona responsablemente los dólares de los contribuyentes. La información financiera compartida por PPSD con el Concejo ha generado serias inquietudes sobre las políticas de gestión fiscal de PPSD. Estoy completamente a favor de asignar un millón de dólares adicionales de fondos no anticipados a PPSD con la condición de una auditoría independiente exhaustiva de las finanzas del distrito y un aumento proporcional en la financiación estatal. Estamos comprometidos a hacer nuestra parte; es hora de que el distrito y el estado hagan la suya.”
Presidente Pro Tempore Juan Pichardo (Distrito 9):
“Nuestras escuelas son la base de esta ciudad, y cada dólar que invertimos en ellas debe ser tratado con el más alto nivel de cuidado. El Concejo Municipal asumió la responsabilidad con niveles históricos de financiación para el distrito porque creemos en el potencial de nuestros estudiantes, pero estos fondos deben ser utilizados de manera transparente, responsable y fiscalmente cuidadosa. Hoy, eso no parece ser el caso. Del distrito, necesitamos una auditoría independiente; y del estado, necesitamos un compromiso claro para hacer una contribución proporcional. Los estudiantes, familias y educadores de Providence merecen el apoyo que necesitan para prosperar, y el Concejo continuará haciendo su parte.”
Jefe de la Mayoría Miguel Sanchez (Distrito 6):
“Seamos claros: la irresponsabilidad fiscal del distrito está causando una crisis para nuestros estudiantes. Usar los equipos deportivos de los niños y los pases de autobús como moneda de cambio es escandaloso y completamente inaceptable. Para acceder a financiación adicional de la ciudad, deben comprometerse a resolver su desorden financiero. No más cheques en blanco. El distrito necesita enfrentar una auditoría y demostrar que será responsable con el dinero que se supone debe beneficiar a nuestros niños. Nuestra ciudad, y los estudiantes que la hacen grandiosa, merecen algo mejor.”
En la reunión de esta noche, el Concejo otorgó el primer paso a una ordenanza introducida por la concejala Shelley Peterson (Distrito 14), que requeriría a los propietarios registrar anualmente a los administradores locales de propiedades para viviendas de seis o más unidades. El Departamento de Inspecciones y Normas administraría el formulario de registro, y los propietarios enfrentarían multas por incumplimiento. Esta ordenanza busca proteger la calidad de vida de los residentes y promover la seguridad pública en nuestros vecindarios. El Concejo votará sobre el segundo paso en la próxima reunión el 7 de noviembre.
Los concejales aprobaron varias resoluciones, incluyendo:
• Una condena a los aumentos significativos en los precios de la electricidad recientemente aprobados por la Comisión de Servicios Públicos de R.I.
• Una condena a la pena de muerte y a la ejecución de Marcellus Williams
• Una resolución instando a los residentes de Providence a votar “sí” en la Pregunta 6 en la Boleta, demostrando un compromiso a la calidad de los edificios escolares públicos
• Reconocimiento de octubre como el Mes de la Herencia Italiana Americana y el Mes de Concienciación sobre el Cáncer de Mama.
by Council Staff | Oct 17, 2024 | Uncategorized, Ward-13
Providence, RI – Last night, Mayor Brett Smiley threatened to veto the entire Comprehensive Plan if it includes the committee-approved amendment to prohibit new gas station development.
In response, Council President Rachel Miller released the following statement:
“The Comprehensive Plan guides our vision for growth over the next decade. The City and City Councilors have engaged hundreds of residents in thorough conversations, including countless community meetings, four public hearings, and hundreds of letters of testimony. Clear themes emerged around a vision of growth for Providence’s working families: housing development, affordability, health and safety, maintaining the character of our neighborhoods, and resiliency in the face of a changing climate. The amended Comp Plan does exactly that. To threaten a two year process—potentially relinquishing our ability to govern our land use to the state—over this issue is irresponsible. There are over 40 gas stations in the city, land which can be used as gas stations in perpetuity. There is no known demand for more. Rhode Island has the highest asthma rates in the country. Last year, Providence rents increased at a higher rate than any other city nationwide. The amended Comp Plan simply says: available land will be prioritized for uses that meet our urgent needs. Every square foot should be prioritized for new homes and clean, family-sustaining jobs. That the Mayor would risk the entire plan for the potential of building more gas stations is reckless.”
Committee on Ordinances voted to continue the public hearing regarding the Comprehensive Plan to Monday, October 21, 5:30pm in the Council Chamber on the third floor of City Hall.
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by Council Staff | Oct 16, 2024 | Uncategorized
Providence, RI – Tonight, Council Committee on Ordinances voted to continue the public hearing regarding the Comprehensive Plan to:
Monday, October 21, 5:30pm
Council Chamber, City Hall, Floor 3
Press and the public are invited to attend. During Monday’s hearing, Council President Rachel Miller will share remarks, a series of amendments will be introduced, and a vote on the Comprehensive Plan as amended will take place.
Watch the recording of tonight’s hearing here.
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Audiencia Pública del Plan Comprehensivo se Continuará el lunes 21 de octubre
Providence, RI – Esta noche, el Comité de Ordenanzas del Concejo votó para continuar la audiencia pública sobre el Plan Comprehensivo para:
Lunes, 21 de Octubre, 5:30pm
Cámara del Concejo, Ayuntamiento, Tercer Piso
La prensa y el público están invitados a asistir. Durante la audiencia del lunes, la presidenta del Concejo Rachel Miller compartirá comentarios, se introducirán una serie de enmiendas y se llevará a cabo una votación sobre el Plan Comprehensivo enmendado.
Mira la grabación de la audiencia de anoche aquí.
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by Council Staff | Oct 10, 2024 | Uncategorized
Providence, RI – This morning, Mayor Brett Smiley issued a letter to in response to Providence Public Schools District (PPSD) Superintendent Dr. Javier Montañez’s request for additional funds. City Council members are in full support of Mayor Smiley’s conditions for providing more funds, and released the following statements:
Council President Rachel Miller (Ward 13):
“This year, City Council advocated for and passed the largest budget increase for Providence Public Schools in decades. The council is deeply committed to supporting teachers, students, and parents while responsibly managing taxpayer dollars. Financial information shared by PPSD with the Council has created grave misgivings about PPSD’s fiscal management policies. I am in full support of allocating an additional $1M of unanticipated funds to PPSD on the condition of a thorough independent audit of district finances and a proportional increase in state funding. We’re committed to doing our part; it’s time for the district and the state to do theirs.”
President Pro Tempore Juan Pichardo (Ward 9):
“Our schools are the backbone of this city, and every dollar we invest in them should be treated with the highest level of care. City Council stepped up with historic levels of funding for the district because we believe in our students’ potential, but these funds must be used in a transparent, accountable, and fiscally responsible way. Today, that doesn’t seem to be the case. From the district, we need an independent audit; and from the state, we need a clear commitment to make a proportional contribution. Providence students, families, and educators deserve the support they need to thrive, and Council will continue to do its part.”
Majority Whip Miguel Sanchez (Ward 6):
“Let’s be clear: the district’s fiscal irresponsibility is causing a crisis for our students. Using children’s sports teams and bus passes as bargaining chips is outrageous and completely unacceptable. To access additional city funding; they must commit to cleaning up their financial mess. No more blank checks. The district needs to face an audit and prove it will be responsible with money that is supposed to benefit our kids. Our city, and the students that make it great, deserve better.”
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by Council Staff | Oct 9, 2024 | Uncategorized
Providence is set to become the first East Coast city to ban the construction of new gas stations
Providence, RI – At tonight’s public hearing on the Comprehensive Plan, the Committee on Ordinances approved a historic amendment to prohibit the construction of any new gas stations within city limits. This amendment alters language in the Mobility Chapter under Objective M5, replacing “discourage” with “prohibit.” While other cities have enacted similar prohibitions, Providence would be the first city on the East Coast to do so. With this amendment, Providence can model what proactive municipal climate policy looks like.
This amendment, introduced by Senior Deputy Majority Leader John Goncalves (Ward 1), is part of a large slate of amendments announced earlier today by City Council leadership.
As Providence moves towards expanded use of hybrid and electric vehicles and improved public transit in the next decade, new gas stations would run contrary to the city’s climate goals. Providence and surrounding towns have abundant gas stations, and this prohibition will ensure that available lots will be put to more sustainable use, such as for housing or green energy infrastructure like charging stations.
“We face an unprecedented climate crisis” said Senior Deputy Majority Leader John Goncalves (Ward 1). “This is an issue where we can – and must – take bold action. Providence can lead the way in reducing carbon emissions and promoting cleaner, greener energy alternatives. With this step, Providence can lead in a big way, modeling for cities across the region how to reduce carbon emissions and prioritize the expansion of green infrastructure. While advancing sustainable energy alternatives, existing stations will continue to serve the community, remaining a valuable resource, as we also move toward gradually shifting to the energy of the future.”
The prohibition on new gas stations will be enacted through a subsequent Zoning Ordinance upon the amended Comprehensive Plan’s full Council approval.
On Wednesday, October 16, at 5:30pm, Council Committee on Ordinances will hold what is expected to be the final public hearing on the Comprehensive Plan. At this hearing, councilors will formally introduce the full package of amendments. Press and the public are invited to attend, with community members invited to share additional feedback.
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Comité Vota para Prohibir la Construcción de Nuevas Gasolineras en Providence
Providence se convertirá en la primera ciudad de la Costa Este en prohibir la construcción de nuevas gasolineras
Providence, RI – En la audiencia pública de esta noche sobre el Plan Comprehensivo, el Comité de Ordenanzas aprobó una enmienda histórica para prohibir la construcción de nuevas gasolineras dentro de los límites de la ciudad. Esta enmienda altera el lenguaje del Capítulo de Movilidad bajo el Objetivo M5, reemplazando “desalentar” por “prohibir.” Mientras que otras ciudades en todo el país han establecido prohibiciones similares, Providence sería la primera ciudad de la Costa Este en hacerlo. Al establecer esta prohibición, Providence puede dar un ejemplo de cómo es una política climática municipal efectiva.
Esta enmienda, presentada por el Sr. Diputado Líder de la Mayoría John Goncalves (Distrito 1), es parte de una amplia lista de enmiendas anunciadas hoy por los líderes del Concejo Municipal.
A medida que Providence avanza hacia un uso ampliado de vehículos híbridos y eléctricos y un mejor transporte público en la próxima década, la creación de nuevas gasolineras iría en contra de los objetivos climáticos de la ciudad. Providence y las ciudades a su alrededor tienen abundantes gasolineras, y esta prohibición garantizará que los lotes disponibles se utilicen de manera más sostenible, como para viviendas o infraestructura de energía verde como estaciones de carga.
“Nos enfrentamos a una crisis climática sin precedentes”, dijo el Sr. Diputado Líder de la Mayoría John Goncalves (Distrito 1). “Se trata de un problema en el que podemos –y debemos– tomar medidas fuertes. Providence puede liderar el camino en la reducción de las emisiones de carbono y la promoción de alternativas energéticas más limpias y ecológicas. Con este paso, Providence puede liderar en gran medida, dando ejemplo a las ciudades de toda la región sobre cómo reducir las emisiones de carbono y priorizar la expansión de la infraestructura ecológica. Mientras se promueven alternativas energéticas sostenibles, las gasolineras existentes seguirán prestando servicios a la comunidad y seguirán siendo un recurso valioso, a medida que avanzamos gradualmente hacia la energía del futuro”.
La prohibición de nuevas gasolineras se establecerá mediante una Ordenanza de Zonificación posterior tras la aprobación en pleno del Plan Comprehensivo enmendado por parte del Concejo.
El miércoles 16 de octubre, a las 5:30pm, el Comité de Ordenanzas del Concejo llevará a cabo lo que se espera sea la audiencia pública final sobre el Plan Comprehensivo. En esta audiencia pública, los concejales presentarán formalmente el paquete completo de enmiendas. Se invita a la prensa y al público a asistir, y a los miembros de la comunidad a compartir comentarios adicionales.
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