WPRO News
In a follow up to his first budget speech the night before, Providence Mayor Jorge Elorza joined with the leadership of the Department of Public Safety Thursday afternoon to speak about his investment in both the police and fire departments in Fiscal Year 2016.
The Mayor has dedicated over 40 percent of his inaugural budget to improve public safety, including opening a new police and fire academy this year. Public Safety Commissioner Steven Pare applauds the move to add new police.
“Everyone likes to see that uniform in their community,” said Pare “And we also have to respond to the 110,000 calls each and every year.”
Elorza said the new academy will add 32 new police officers and will help improve community policing.
“That’s 32 more police officers that can be walking the beat in our neighborhoods,” said Elorza.
The Providence Fire Department academy is expected to bring on 52 more firefighters, and move which the Elorza administration says will benefit the city by reducing the amount of overtime hours and cover impending retirements.
