Subscribe | Follow | Advertise

Good morning, Providence. This is PVD Current, the newsletter that’s as satisfying as a hot shower after a long day. 🚿 

What to expect in today’s Current:

• $5M grant for art in schools 🎨 

• 🤖 Hasbro & I-195 District Park

• What to know for November 5th 🗳️

Let’s get to it.

— Oscar Punchak

Tide Trivia

Want to see your business or event here?

Click the button below to partner with us and view our special November offer!

Currents & Waves

R.I. Grants $5M for Arts in Schools 🎨

The R.I. Department of Education has awarded $5 million in grants to 53 local education agencies through the ARTS initiative, which funds school arts programs statewide. Announced at Hope High School, this second funding round allocates over $100,000 per district, with Providence receiving the most at $928,985. Schools can use funds for supplies, equipment, performances, or artist residencies. Commissioner Angélica Infante-Green emphasized that these investments enrich students' education by fostering creativity and critical thinking.

Helpful Info for Election Day 🗳️

As Election Day approaches tomorrow, November 5th, it is important to ensure that you are prepared to participate. RI’s Voter Information Center provides essential resources to assist you, including information on your designated polling place, voting hours, and a sample ballot to help you familiarize yourself with the candidates and issues at stake. Taking the time to review this information will improve your voting experience and empower you to make informed decisions. Be sure to utilize these resources to ensure that your voice is heard on Election Day.

I-195 District Potentially Hasbro’s Future Home 🤖 

The I-195 Redevelopment District Commission is proposing to designate Parcel 42, a prime site in Providence’s I-195 District, as the new location for Hasbro Inc.’s corporate headquarters. Pending board approval on Nov. 6, this would grant Hasbro exclusive rights to develop the parcel, previously earmarked for a luxury tower by the Fane Organization. The proposed 300,000-square-foot Hasbro headquarters would include open office spaces, ground-floor retail, a toy museum, and a fabrication lab facing the district’s park. While Gov. McKee and city officials are preparing alternative proposals to retain Hasbro in Rhode Island, Hasbro CEO Chris Cocks has been in talks with Massachusetts officials about a potential move, with a decision expected in early 2025.

Coastline Commerce

Providence’s Bond Rating Upgraded to A+ 💰

Fitch Ratings has upgraded Providence's General Obligation Bond rating from A to A+ with a stable outlook, reflecting the city’s stronger financial management and improved reserves. Mayor Brett Smiley attributed the upgrade to balanced financial operations and strategic investments aimed at securing long-term fiscal health and reduced interest costs. Fitch commended Providence’s reserve levels, which rose from negative in 2016 to 5.3% of spending by 2023, achieved ahead of schedule. The report also noted recent agreements with tax-exempt institutions, which are expected to boost revenue and offset future budget increases.

Seaside Skies

MONDAY

55°🌡 46° | ☁️ | 💧 10% | 💨 SE 9 mph

TUESDAY

72°🌡 60° | 🌤️ | 💧 8% | 💨 SW 14 mph

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

Sound Waves

MONDAY

The Parlour | Foundation Mondays | 9PM | $5, 21+

TUESDAY

Moonshine Alley | Tuesdays with Pat Lowell and Friends | 7PM

The 133 Club | Matt Martin & the Day Drinkers | 7PM

The Parlour | Metal Night | 9PM | $5

Maritime Matches

MONDAY

🏀 Amica Mutual Pavilion | Providence College vs Central Connecticut State University | 7PM | Tickets

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 Wednesday.

Thanks,

Oscar Punchak | Publisher, PVD Current