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Providence council approves $6.2 million 'Mile of History' sidewalk bond on first reading after heated equity debate
Summary
On Dec. 4 the Providence City Council approved on first reading a $6.2 million infrastructure bond for Benefit Street's "Mile of History," prompting a divided debate: supporters cited tourism and ADA improvements, while opponents called the plan inequitable and warned it concentrates investment in wealthier wards.
Councilwoman Ryan introduced a $6,200,000 infrastructure ordinance for the Benefit Street "Mile of History" historic quarter and urged the council to approve the measure on first reading, saying the work would repair sidewalks, add Americans with Disabilities Act accommodations and restore tree wells.
Ryan cited endorsements from the Governor's Commission on Disabilities, the Providence Street Coalition, AARP and RAMP, and said testimony estimated about $162 million in annual economic stimulus tied to WaterFire and related heritage tourism — figures presented to support the city's investment. She also told colleagues the city could access favorable general obligation bonding at roughly 2.33 percent, a financing cost she and other supporters said would…
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