In Rhode Island’s special election on March 2, PPS strongly urges a “YES” vote on Questions 2, 3, and 6. Read on for more information on each issue.
Courtesy of Providence Business News
Question 2 supports a $74 million investment in our state beaches and parks, outdoor recreation, farmland and forested land, water quality, and community resilience. It includes $4 million for parks on former I-195 land and $7 million in matching funds for towns and cities to improve municipal climate resilience. Climate resilience is a pressing issue, as highlighted by our inclusion of the entire city of Providence on our 2021 MEP list, due to increasing threats from climate change and sea level rise.
Question 3 supports a $65 million Housing and Community Opportunity bond for the construction and rehabilitation of affordable homes and apartments across Rhode Island, and to help communities revitalize neighborhoods through redevelopment, new construction, and property acquisition. This smart investment will leverage millions in additional resources while creating much needed housing, construction jobs, and stronger communities. Click here to download a supporter action toolkit.
Question 6 supports authorizing the state to issue bonds of $7 million to support arts facilities and historic preservation efforts across Rhode Island, including $1 million for the State Preservation Grants program. State Preservation Grants support and leverage the restoration, preservation, and adaptive reuse of public and nonprofit-owned museums, cultural art centers, and public historic sites. Since it was last funded in 2014, the program has invested more than $10 million in and created hundreds of jobs related to 57 projects at historic properties like the Providence Athenaeum, the Music Mansion, and the Betsey Williams Cottage. Click here to learn more and download a supporter action toolkit.