Reopening Providence
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Statement Regarding Black Lives Matter
Black Lives Matter. Its clearer than it ever has been. We have reached a tipping point. There can no longer be half measures in dealing with racism – its long shadow over criminal justice, civil rights and economic equity must now be confronted head on. The Downtown Improvement District joins arms with our partners in government and commerce in denouncing racism as we work to create a safer and more livable city for the residents, visitors, and businesses we serve.
— Board of Directors, Providence Downtown Improvement District
A Message from our Chairman
Our Downtown Improvement District is paying particular attention to the needs of our merchants and property owners as our business community cautiously reopens. With an eye toward clean and safe as our guiding principles, please know that our safety ambassadors and clean team are prepared to provide necessary support to shop keepers, eating establishments, and visitors who may need advice, directions, or a friendly “hello.” Our downtown is the gem of Rhode Island. Our DID team is dedicating itself to a successful reopening. As DID chairman I speak on behalf of our board of directors in extending a hand and saying, “Welcome back”!
— Joseph R. Paolino, Jr. – Chairman
Phase III Reopening Downtown
The Providence Downtown Improvement District has been working to ensure that as the reopening process begins, Downtown Providence will be clean and safe. During each phase of reopening, we will be there to support the comfort and safety of all our businesses and visitors.
Below is a list of COVID-19 business resources:
In response to Phase III of the State’s reopening plans, the DID will:
- Regularly sanitize district touch points – parking meters, crosswalk buttons, door handles, trashcans.
- Several ambassadors and the Operations Manager will be dedicated to assisting downtown businesses during hours of operation as needed.
- The DID will offer “Do Not Enter Without Face Mask” signs to all businesses.
- Each business will be provided with contact information of a DID representative who will assist with COVID-19 related issues that arise.
- The DID’s Operations Manager will canvas the district and discuss any issues businesses have and will be on the street to address any unforeseen conditions needing attention.
Our Ambassador Work Continues
The Providence Downtown Improvement District has always been committed to maintaining the cleanliness and safety of Downtown Providence. Performing a variety of roles in the community, our ambassadors’ maintenance of the district continues during the COVID-19 public health crisis and is as important as ever. Our Ambassador program led by Operations Manager Tim Hamlin, has shown great leadership through these difficult times. The routine maintenance of the streets and sidewalks has and will continue to provide a safe and welcoming experience in Downtown Providence. The Ambassadors are cleaning graffiti, providing basic social services, and serving as the ‘eyes and ears” of our district.
The following data provides a snapshot of the work that has been done since March. Ambassadors have removed 139,600 pounds of trash, 390 graffiti tags, 161 stickers, provided hospitality assistance to 266, provided business assistance to 151, performed 6 wellness checks and 31 safety escorts.
A Splash of Color in the Downtown
Since 2006, the Providence Downtown Improvement District has worked to beautify downtown Providence every summer with hanging baskets, vibrant planters and colorful flowerbeds for residents and visitors to enjoy. Thanks to the effort of the DID Ambassadors and loyal community partners, the DID’s flower program is getting underway this season. Be on the lookout for many pops of color as flowers bloom around the Downtown!
Questions & Concerns
If you have any questions or immediate concerns, please contact us at (401) 421-4450 or visit us on FB at Providence Downtown Improvement District, Instagram @provdowntown or on Twitter @provdowntown
