May 23, 2005
RISD and URI to increase on-campus housing -- Demonstrate commitment to addressing housing crisis in Rhode Island
RISD and URI are underway with plans to add additional on-campus housing. RISD is renovating the former Rhode Island Hospital Trust Bank at 15 Westminster Street, providing loft spaces for nearly 500 students. The project will increase the university’s on-campus housing capacity by over one third. “In addition to strengthening our sense of community here on campus, the increase in on-campus housing is one way RISD can address the affordable housing crisis in the state,” said HousingWorks member and RISD President Roger Mandle. “As Providence continues to grow in popularity, it becomes harder and harder for people to afford to call the capital city home. This provides for our student body, preserves an historic landmark and alleviates pressure on the local market.”
In South County, URI is following suit, constructing 800 new dorm rooms in an attempt to keep more students on campus. Like the rest of the state, South County is in the midst of a major housing crisis. While not a cure, the addition of on-campus housing helps address this critical issue.
HousingWorks commends RISD and URI for the role they are playing in addressing our state’s housing needs.
Providence Business News editorial recognizes impact of affordable housing crisis on Rhode Island economy --
Commends HousingWorks for drawing attention to the crisis
The editorial pages of last week’s Providence Business News call on the business community to help find solutions to the state’s housing crisis. “The affordable housing crisis impacts us all,” highlights the connection between the lack of affordable housing in the state and the impact on local business. “The issue of affordable housing is about the economy. It is about jobs. It is about your business or organization.” The PBN praised HousingWorks for spreading the word and raising awareness on this critically important issue.
Save the date -- HousingWorks rally at the State House!
HousingWorks is holding a rally at the State House Rotunda on June 2nd at 3:00pm. Come and show your support for the HousingWorks Policy Platform! Tell your friends to come too! And let your legislators know how much you care about Rhode Island’s housing crisis today! It is critically important that we have a good showing. The more people who attend the bigger impact our message will have. More information is on the way.
