Mayor takes part in J&W Parking Garage Ground-breaking

Mayor Angel Taveras and Economic Development Director James Bennett joined Governor Lincoln Chafee, Johnson & Wales University Chancellor John Bowen and J&W Providence Campus president Mim Runey today for the official groundbreaking of a multi-level parking garage in the heart of downtown.

This 6-level, 5-story parking garage will serve 700-plus vehicles for J&W students, faculty and staff and is expected to be ready for the start of school next fall. Guest speakers hailed the project for its thorough design review and collaboration among University, Downtown Design Review Committee and City Planning personnel. Vision 3 was the architect for the $20 million project, and Dimeo Construction the contractor.

Particularly noteworthy is that the facade will complement nearby building facades, and offer attractive window openings, lighting and screening. It will also offer 3000-square feet of first-floor retail shopping, which will generate more area jobs and revenues.

This undertaking will contribute to the University's downtown and Knowledge District presence and its Providence Campus, while answering their need for parking. It is also expected to alleviate considerable traffic congestion within the area, opening the door for expanded business growth.

For more information, visit the J&W website at www.jwu.edu