By WPRO News
Providence Mayor Jorge Elorza took his oath of office for his second term on Monday, touting a city that’s changed since he took office for the first time four years ago.
“Four years ago, there was little development happening in the city. Today, we have cranes in the sky and over half a billion dollars being invested, our hotel rooms are full, and property values are rising,” he said. “People are investing here, they’re visiting here, and they’re buying homes here. People believe in the direction we’re heading in and they want to be a part of it.”
He said he wants to see success, but wants to ensure that Providence’s residents afford to stay. He plans to have a summit on affordable housing during his second term.
“We must take a critical look at the issues of gentrification, housing affordability and displacement from every angle and craft a comprehensive city response,” he said. “Providence is on the verge of a very special moment in its history, but I only want to be part of that moment if our existing residents are part of it too.”
Elorza said despite such progress, mental health is an area where the city still needs work. To remedy that, he’s launching a “kindness initiative” which will begin with a working group that consists of different faith leaders who will help “reach as many people to make sure this message of kindness is penetrating.”
Elorza also discussed education, saying he wants Providence to have universal pre-kindergarten and ensure school-age children have internet access at home. He said the city is working on “various ways to do it right now” with “institutional partners,” colleges and universities, and internet service providers.
A handful of people waved signs during his address on the steps of City Hall, protesting plans to sell the city’s water supply to offset rising pension costs.
