The City of Providence is ready to continue the move toward modernizing its school system, which by the Mayor’s admission is not making the grade when it comes to infrastructure.
Mayor Jorge Elorza announcing a 125 million dollar referendum that will continue much needed improvements within the physical school buildings.
Mayor Jorge O. Elorza stated, “For too many decades, we have failed generations of Providence students, faculty and families who have been forced to learn in buildings that are literally falling apart around them. That is why five years ago, we underwent an extensive community visioning process that prepared us to develop a master plan for our school buildings. Over the past few months, we have broken ground on some of these investments, including the Narducci Learning Center and the Spaziano Elementary School Annex, but we know that our families deserve even more. Tonight, I am excited to stand with the City Council in supporting a $125 million investment through a bond referendum to continue improvements to school facilities, because we believe the greatest investments we can make for the future of our city are those that directly support our youth.”
The 125 million dollar bond, which the city council will approve in a special meeting tomorrow, will add to the 400 million dollar commitment that the city made toward improving schools back in 2017. If the city council approved the measure that voters will decide the issue in the November general election.
Providence City Council President John Igliozzi added, “Providence is faced with the challenge of serving students that are living in the 21st Century, yet our schools are not meeting the needs of those that walk their halls. I am excited to hear more about this much-needed proposal and look forward to the presentation from members of the administration and RIDE. The Council has been committed to working with our partners in government to ensure that our students have facilities that enhance their learning experience. I am eager to learn more about how this potential investment can help achieve that goal. ”
Council approval is expected.
(Photo Credit: John Baibak, Newsradio RI)