Monday, April 22, 2024
Grants aimed to support clean-ups in areas disproportionately affected by trash and illegal dumping
Mayor Brett P. Smiley and the Department of Public Works today announced the launch of the Litter Pilot Program, a citywide initiative aimed at reducing litter in high-volume commercial corridors. This $150,000 investment in the cleanliness and beautification of the city provided funding for grants of up to $25,000 to local organizations through a competitive request for proposals process. Awardees included Cozy Rhody Litter Clean-Ups, Amos House, The Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council and the Providence Downtown Improvement District.
“Improving the local quality of life for Providence residents includes making our city streets cleaner and more welcoming,” said Mayor Brett Smiley. “I am excited to be launching this incredible opportunity to clean up trash and debris and support the areas of our city that have been disproportionately impacted by litter. By investing in initiatives that combat litter and enhance the cleanliness and beauty of our public spaces, we are making Providence an even more vibrant and welcoming place to live, work and visit.”
Each organization will focus on areas identified as having the most urgent need for clean-up efforts, contributing to a cleaner and more inviting environment for all residents and visitors. Strategic clean-up initiatives are taking place throughout Earth month and will continue through the year, underscoring Mayor Smiley’s ongoing commitment to investing in improvements to the city’s public spaces. Later this spring, the City will be launching a citywide graffiti clean-up initiative aimed at addressing illegal graffiti on both private and public property with support from staff dedicated to graffiti removal.
Participants from the Providence Downtown Improvement District will prioritize cleaning efforts within the city’s Downtown District while Amos House participants will oversee litter clean-up and beautification efforts in areas surrounding Chalkstone Avenue, Atwells Avenue and up Mount Pleasant Avenue to Smith Street. Cozy Rhody Litter Clean-Ups will conduct pick up initiatives throughout the City of Providence, concentrating on areas requiring the most significant clean-up efforts. The Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council will focus on sections of the Greenway and adjacent areas, including the Gotham Greens Greenway, San Souci and Olneyville Square. Today, on Earth Day, Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council members are conducting an extensive in-water cleanup to clear trash and debris from the Woonasquatucket River and surrounding land while also painting guard rails, benches and planting trees.
To learn more about how to participate in clean-up initiatives during Earth month and throughout the year, community members are encouraged to connect with the participating organizations or call 3-1-1 to learn more about the city’s Litter Pilot Program.