Community Engagement Meetings Announced for Redevelopment of Former Urban League Site
Demolition Expected to Commence in late October
PROVIDENCE, RI – The City of Providence today announced that the Department of Planning and Development and the Providence Redevelopment Agency (PRA) are hosting a series of community engagement to discuss the redevelopment of 246 Prairie Avenue, the former site of the Urban League of Rhode Island, to gather input from local residents and discuss the needs and priorities of the Southside community.
The meetings will be held at the Davey Lopes Recreation Center, located at 227 Dudley Street, on the following dates and Spanish interpretation will be available:
· Thursday, October 24, 2024 from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
· Tuesday, November 12, 2024 from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
· Tuesday, December 10, 2024 from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
“As the previous home of the Urban League of Rhode Island, the redevelopment of 246 Prairie Avenue is an important step for the future of a site that has been such an integral community hub for Providence for many years,” said Mayor Brett P. Smiley. “Having a community voice in the redevelopment process is essential to ensuring that the project benefits the people who live and work in the neighborhood. Neighbors and community members are encouraged to attend these meetings to share their insights, voice concerns, and collaborate on the vision for the site’s future.”
Dwayne Keys, a long-time resident and advocate for Providence’s Southside community, will serve as the Community Facilitator throughout the engagement process. With over 20 years of experience working with community groups across Providence and Rhode Island, Dwayne brings a wealth of expertise in neighborhood initiatives. He is also the Managing Director of D Key Solution, a consulting firm that specializes in meeting facilitation and community engagement, with a focus on zoning, planning, and redevelopment.
“The former Urban League building was a cornerstone of South Providence, connecting countless residents to resources that transformed lives – including my own,” said Deputy Majority Leader Mary Kay Harris (Ward 11). “As we look towards the future, I am deeply proud of the city’s commitment to making sure community voices are heard and respected. This site is deeply personal to many, and we’ve been working hard to ensure its legacy is carried forward, uplifting and empowering the people it was originally built to serve.”
The 246 Prairie Avenue property was acquired by the PRA in late 2022 following the former Urban League of Rhode Island announcement the site would need to be redeveloped. The PRA has contracted with Pasquazzi Bros., Inc. to remove hazardous materials from the site in preparation for building demolition. This site work is scheduled to begin on September 26, 2024. Demolition is expected to begin in late October, 2024.
“We are eager to initiate a community-driven design to envision the future of this important community asset,” said Providence Planning and Development Director Joe Mulligan. “We look forward to working with community leaders to develop plans that address the needs of this neighborhood.”
The City of Providence and Providence Redevelopment Agency welcome all interested community members to participate in the upcoming events and take part in shaping the future of 246 Prairie Avenue. In addition to community meetings, the PRA is assembling a panel of local community members to advise the design of the community process and provide elevated input.
For project updates and announcements, please visit providenceri.gov/246prairie.
