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Good morning, Providence. This is PVD Current, the newsletter as refreshing as a stroll along the pedestrian bridge.

What to expect in today’s Current:

• A sunken barge’s long-awaited removal 🚢

• JWU’s tuition pledge for students 🎓

• A charming Fox Point condo 🏡

Let’s get to it.

— Oscar Punchak

PVD Current Mini Crossword

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Currents & Waves

🚢 Sunken Barge Removal Begins

After eight years, the long-standing crane barge in the Providence River is finally being removed. This week, divers and contractors began work to lift the 114-foot vessel, which sank during a 2017 storm, from the riverbed. The $1.5M project is funded by a NOAA grant through the Inflation Reduction Act. Once removed, parts of the barge will be repurposed into public art by The Steel Yard, beautifying the waterfront. This project addresses environmental concerns while creating a unique artistic legacy for Providence. With safety and environmental measures in place, this marks a major improvement for the city’s riverfront.

🎓 JWU Offers Tuition Pledge

Johnson & Wales University is introducing "The JWU Pledge," a program designed to make college more affordable for students. Families earning up to $80,000 annually can qualify for full tuition coverage, while those earning less than $200,000 can have 60% of tuition costs covered. With tuition currently at $41,782 annually, this pledge represents a significant financial relief for many. JWU is also offering a three-year degree option, allowing students to save on tuition and jump into careers sooner. These initiatives aim to support families, boost access to higher education, and position JWU as a competitive choice in Providence.

🏛️ Key Points from McKee's Speech

Governor McKee outlined his priorities for Rhode Island in his recent speech. His upcoming budget will include no broad-based tax increases, continuing a five-year streak of avoiding them. He highlighted plans to address homelessness with a shelter bed dashboard and additional funding. McKee also emphasized programs to raise per-capita income by $20,000 by 2030, including funding for work-based learning and career training. On infrastructure, he praised the RhodeRestore program, which has improved over 1,000 road and sidewalk projects across the state, and shared updates on the Washington Bridge rebuild. These efforts reflect his focus on growth and community needs.

Harbor Homes

🏡 Cozy Condo in Fox Point

47 Transit Street, Unit 1, offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern updates in Fox Point. This 912 sq. ft., one-bedroom, one-and-a-half-bath condo features exposed brick, a fireplace, in-unit laundry, and a private south-facing patio. It’s perfectly situated just steps from the pedestrian bridge, downtown, India Point Park, and Wickenden Street, giving you easy access to Providence’s vibrant culture. Whether relaxing on the patio or enjoying nearby restaurants and parks, this condo offers convenience and character. If you’re looking for a home in a great location, this could be it. View more photos here.

Seaside Skies

WEDNESDAY

32°🌡 16° | ☀️ | 💧 2% | 💨 NW 15 mph

THURSDAY

32°🌡 21° | ☁️ | 💧 3% | 💨 WSW 8 mph

(The forecast as of the night before this newsletter was published.)

Sound Waves

WEDNESDAY

Nick-a-Nee’s | Bluegrass Throedown | 8:30 pm

Moonshine Alley | Wednesday Nights with Kolton Davis! | 7 pm

THURSDAY

Moonshine Alley | Dan Greaves | 8 pm

That’s all for today…

Thank you for reading all the way through! Feel free to email us with any questions or suggestions. You’ll hear from us again on Friday.

Thanks,

Oscar Punchak | Publisher, PVD Current