Providence Mayor Jorge Elorza joined city and state officials this morning for a reopening ceremony at Kennedy Plaza, following a major redesign. The mayor vowed to integrate the arts into the reimagined plaza, which he called the “epicenter of creating community in Providence.” He’s proud of its transformation into an urban gathering center for organized activities like festivals, concerts, and farmers markets, as well as informal games of dominos and chess.
Warwick Mayor Scott Avedisian, RIPTA chairperson, thanked riders for their patience during several months of construction. He described the changes as improving their safety, comfort and convenience, highlighting new ticket vending machines that will allow them to use credit cards and should ultimately improve boarding times.
Providence City Council President Luis Aponte called Kennedy Plaza the “intersection of the state,” but noted that for too long, it was an unwelcoming space. He’s pleased that the process has begun to make it inviting and to use it in creative ways.
Providence Director of Planning & Development, Bonnie Nickerson, introduced the speakers which also included Congressman David Cicilline and Director of the Downtown Providence Parks Conservancy, Cliff Wood (pictured right). See more details about the changes to Kennedy Plaza, along with a map showing new bus locations.
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