Moratorium on the Issuance of Summons for Expired Licenses and Registrations and Additional Guidance on City Park Use
Friday, April 3, 2020
PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Mayor Jorge O. Elorza announced two additional updates regarding Providence’s COVID-19 response. These updates include a moratorium on the issuance of summons and additional guidance on the use of all city parks and green spaces.
Aligned with guidance from the state and effective immediately, the issuance of summonses for all motor vehicle registrations and drivers’ licenses that have expired within the last six months will be postponed until further notice. Public safety is a top priority and in circumstances where individuals are stopped for operating a motor vehicle without a driver’s license, without applying to register the vehicle or with a suspended license, the officer will decide to issue summonses on a case-by-case basis.
As residents continue to use parks and green spaces across the city during this time, they are encouraged to follow the 5-person limit on all gatherings, social distance at least 6 feet apart and visit parks within their neighborhood in an effort to limit all nonessential travel. It is recommended that residents wear face protection whenever possible (including bandannas or fabric masks) which cover the nose and mouth and are primarily used to keep others safe from the spread of germs. Surgical masks and N95 masks should be reserved for healthcare workers and first responders. Drivers at this time are encouraged to also use the necessary precautions as more residents are using outdoor spaces to remain active while they are asked to stay home. As a reminder, all playgrounds are closed. For more guidance on how to use parks with the proper precautions, please visit pvdcovid19.com.
This is a rapidly changing situation. As the state’s recommendations to combat the spread of the COVID-19 evolves, the City of Providence will continue to evaluate the need to make additional changes to city services and operations. Essential city services will continue to be accessible remotely and local resources are available as defined on our website. The City and Providence Public Schools will continue to offer grab and go breakfast, lunch and dinner meals for all Providence youth 18 and younger and as of April 7 multi-day meal distribution will move to Tuesday and Friday only.
Eligible small businesses can receive access to working capital and immediate relief through the Providence Business Loan Fund and are encouraged to complete this survey to help the City understand the impacts of COVID-19 on the local business community. For more information on COVID-19 and best practices you can share, residents can visit our website, call to connect to the Mayor’s Center for City Services by dialing 3-1-1, visiting www.PVD311.com or downloading the PVD311 mobile app on your smartphone for 24/7 access. Residents can register to receive CodeRED emergency notifications by phone, email, text, and/or mobile alerts for the latest updates from the City and to reach out to the Rhode Island Department of Health’s COVID-19 Assistance Line at 401-222-8022 Monday through Friday during regular business hours should they have additional questions.