If the past year and a half has taught us anything, it is the importance of supporting one another during times of hardship and uncertainty. For example, as a community, we supported the local business people as they encountered their most difficult period yet. We persevered and utilized our Creative Capital spirit to innovate and find ways to buy local, while prioritizing the safety of customers and employees alike in all business environments.

Providence is open for business and we are excited to safely welcome folks back to our vibrant downtown. As we continue the process of reopening, we want to support our local creative economy by investing in our artists and entrepreneurs, strengthening our workforce, and encouraging residents and visitors to experience our world-class restaurants, shops, and small businesses .

Our administration recently announced resources to maximize the City’s outdoor spaces for dining, retail, special events, and recreational activities.

Effective as of April 9, 2021 through December 31, 2021, resources to support this effort include:

-Waiving fees associated with special event permits, including but not limited to application fees, street closures, police and fire details, and vending fees.

-Creating and training a Special Events Team to assist event producers to implement COVID guidelines during events permitted by the City.

-Offering up to two hours of free parking in designated commercial districts throughout Providence.

-Launching a webinar series to help businesses navigate the special events, outdoor dining, and expansion of premise applications.

We created these resources to meet the needs and the priorities of our business community and its employees to get our local economy back on track. I am proud of our entrepreneurs and their resilience during this period and I know that our residents will continue to support their local businesses.

For those who had to sell or shut down, please know that we are thinking of you and these measures should help those beginning new initiatives as the economy takes off again. You may not be able to donate today, but you are not forgotten and your future support is vital.

I am proud to be your Mayor and your support matters a great deal to me. If you are able, please support our efforts here in Providence as we enter this new chapter. Could you chip in 10, 15 or 20 dollars to our campaign today? I am always grateful for anything that you are able to give.

Paid for by Friends of Jorge Elorza, PO Box 23420, Providence RI 02903

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