Good morning, Providence. This is PVD Current, the newsletter that’s as satisfying as getting the whole row to yourself on the plane.

What to expect in today’s Current:

• ☕️ New coffee shop coming to town

• A short bridge update 🏗️

• Mediterranean mansion for sale 🏠

Let’s get to it.

— Oscar Punchak

Currents & Waves

Bitty & Beau’s Coming to Providence ☕

Bitty & Beau’s, a coffee shop that employs individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, is opening in Providence, Rhode Island. Amy and Ben Wright, inspired by their own children’s experiences, initially opened the shop to provide jobs for their kids but quickly realized they were fostering a community that changes perceptions about disabilities. The Providence location is nearing its launch, promising a unique experience focusing on human connection, spontaneous dance parties, and a diverse menu.

Some More Quick Bridge News 🗞️

• Demolition to the westbound side began last night

• Gano St. will be closed from 9 PM to 6 AM, Sunday through Thursday, underneath the bridge to allow crews to work

• The on-ramp to I-195 West at Gano Street will remain open

• The work is expected to last two to three weeks

PVD Secures $17 Million for Local Fire Departments 🚒

U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse, along with Congressmen Seth Magaziner and Gabe Amo, announced $22.05 million in federal funds to enhance fire department staffing in Providence and East Providence. The City of Providence will receive a $16.9 million SAFER grant to hire 44 new firefighters, surpassing a previous grant of $15 million in 2015. This funding, awarded through FEMA’s Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) program, aims to improve public safety and support recruitment and retention efforts. Mayor Brett P. Smiley emphasized that this historic funding will enhance public safety across the city and reduce the strain on existing firefighters.

Tide Trivia

What is the tallest building in Providence?

A) The Superman Building
B) One Financial Plaza
C) GTECH Center
D) The Biltmore Hotel

The answer is on the last line of today’s email.

Coastline Commerce

🏡 Mediterranean Mansion For Sale

This stunning 1929 Mediterranean Revival blends historic charm with modern amenities. Highlights include a grand entrance, spacious living and dining rooms, a chef’s kitchen, and a cozy family room. The luxurious primary suite features twin marble baths, and the lower level offers a game room, wine cellar, and exercise room. Outside, the beautifully landscaped gardens include a bluestone terrace, fountain, and outdoor kitchen, creating a serene oasis overlooking Blackstone Boulevard. Learn more about the $3.7M home here.

Seaside Skies

MONDAY

74°🌡 56° | 🌤️ | 💧 2% | 💨 W 12 mph

TUESDAY

76°🌡 50° | ☀️ | 💧 6% | 💨 NW 9 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

133 Club | Matt Martin & The Daydrinkers | 7pm

The Parlour | Metal Night | 9pm | $5

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

The answer is: A) The Superman Building