A predictable, easy-to-navigate downtown core is fundamental to sound economic development. Being able to make your way through heavy traffic, many pedestrians and one-way streets is key to getting products and services in and out of your business.
To make that process simpler, the city of Providence has been involved in a multi-year, multi-phase project known as the "Downtown Circulator Project". The purpose of the project is to make traffic flow well and the city streets more predictable for navigating. The first phase of the project was to convert Washington St. to two-way traffic, which occurred in 2004.
Phase 2 of the Downtown Circulator project includes the return of Weybosset St. and Empire St. to two way traffic. These main roads traverse the heart of downtown, by the Dunkin' Donuts Center and R.I. Convention Center, by 28 Studios and city agencies, past Providence Performing Arts Center (PPAC) and Johnson & Wales University, back down to Dorrance St. and our financial district.
A new drop-off lane has been constructed outside of the PPAC, to improve safety and convenience of theatre goers and motorists alike, and the former comfort station tower is being restored in part and moved to a new median on Weybosset St., delineating the traffic lanes. Other improvements in the area include new traffic signals, new decorative street lights as well as street trees and planters. Dorrance St. and a portion of lower Weybosset St. have also been paved as part of Downtown Circulator Phase II.
And more is planned.
Phase 3 of the project will include the reconfiguration of LaSalle and Emmett Sqs. with improvements to Fountain St., Exchange Terrace, Sabin and Dorrance Sts. Phase III is still in design and is preliminarily scheduled for construction in 2012 and 2013.
This undertaking has required the concerted effort of the city's Department of Planning and Development, the Department of Public Works, the Providence Parks Department, the mayor's office, the Providence Police Department, the R.I. Public Transit Authority (RIPTA,) Johnson & Wales University and numerous private businesses. We are working with contractors from Cardi Corp. in the actual construction.
Improvements include replacing or upgrading seven existing traffic signals; repaving and re-lining roads in the project area; changing traffic flow to two-way and new street signs, regulatory signs and pavement markings. Along PPAC Sq., we will have new street trees and ornamental lighting; new alternative paving materials for the roadway and sidewalks; new ornamental bollards, granite planters and bike racks; restoration of the former comfort station and its relocation.
As we continue to grow as a city - even in our 375th year - we will make the improvements needed to support commerce and industry, and preserve our remarkable quality of life.
For more information on the Downtown Circulator project, contact our Department of Planning and Development at 401-680-8400.
Angel Taveras is the mayor of Providence.