Updating zoning is a key component of Providence Mayors' economic development action plan.
Mayor Angel Taveras today launched a process to comprehensively overhaul the capital city's zoning ordinance. The effort to update and improve Providence's zoning regulations to support development in the city is a key component of the Mayor's economic development action plan, Putting Providence Back to Work.
Numerous community stakeholders, including residents, business owners, developers and Providence's academic, artistic and cultural institutions attended a public meeting on Tuesday evening to kick off the year-long rezoning process.
"We are updating and improving Providence's zoning ordinance as part of our work to jumpstart economic development in Rhode Island's capital city," said Mayor Taveras. "When we work together, when we have a vision and plan, we can compete head-to-head with any city or state in this country."
The project, known as Re:Zoning Providence, will help revitalize and further develop areas of the capital city that can accommodate additional economic growth, while preserving, strengthening and protecting the city's historic pattern of development that is central to the character of its neighborhoods.
The new ordinance will promote innovative and sustainable development and incentivize transit-oriented development in key areas, and enhance the economic and cultural potential of Providence's neighborhoods.
The City's Department of Planning and Development is leading the project with help from a nationally- renowned zoning consultant. The project is funded through a grant from HUD's Office of Sustainable Housing and Communities.
For more information and to participate in the public process, visit www.rezoningprovidence.com.