The Providence Department of Planning and Development and the Providence Redevelopment Agency (PRA) are hosting several community meetings to discuss the redevelopment of 246 Prairie Avenue, the former site of the Urban League of Rhode Island, with the intent of discussing the Southside community’s needs and priorities for the property. The site was acquired by the PRA in late 2022 following the Urban League of Rhode Island’s announcement that the site would need to be redeveloped. The existing building is unsafe and slated to be demolished in the fall or winter of 2024-25. Neighbors are invited to join the conversation about what may come next with three community workshops held at the Davey Lopes Recreation Center, with Spanish interpretation available. The first two sessions were held October 24 and November 12, with a third one slated for Tuesday, December 10, from 6-8pm. For updates, subscribe to the Elmwood e-newsletter by emailing
JenniferDaltonVincent@gmail.com.
More than 80 members and friends attended the Annual Meeting of the Mile of History Association (MoHA) at the Benefit Street Armory on October 27. Professor Ron Onorato reported on his recent work on John Holden Greene, the noted early 19th-century architect who practiced in Providence, and Roz Rustigian organized a post-meeting supper. All are invited to celebrate the holiday season with MoHA by attending the Benefit Street Stroll on Saturday, December 7. The prior weekend, on November 30 and December 1, volunteers will gather to help decorate the Benefit Street lamp posts for the festive occasion.
A new initiative of The Avenue Concept (TAC), the Ripples Project invites artists to bring their creativity to the streets, transforming 14 everyday utility boxes into vibrant public art. Established and emerging artists are encouraged to apply. “This collaboration is hopefully just the start of many future projects centered on creating joy, dialogue, and belonging through public art in Providence,” says Tracy Jonsson-Laboy, executive director of TAC. Partnering with the City of Providence Department of Art, Culture, and Tourism and New Urban Arts, the project aims to inject creativity into the public sphere and reimagine how urban spaces can foster connection.
Artists have until December 8 to submit their applications, with selections rolling out in early 2025. The chosen few will transform those often-overlooked utility boxes into three-dimensional works of art. To fuel this creative journey, TAC will provide a stipend, materials, and hands-on technical support, giving artists the freedom to dive deep into their vision.
The project’s goal goes beyond aesthetics. As American-Canadian journalist and author Jane Jacobs wisely noted, “The trust of a city street is formed over time from many, many little public sidewalk contacts.” It’s a reminder that even the smallest urban interactions can nurture a sense of community. The Ripples Project embraces this philosophy, aiming to spark joy and connection through art. For more information or to submit an application, visit TheAvenueConcept.org. –Jenna Kaplan
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