Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Providence public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
3 issues in roads
Salt storage and supply
With stores sold out of salt during the freeze, the council approved a plan for DPW to distribute free salt to residents at city locations, so people can treat their icy sidewalks.
Snow plow vendor and equipment shortage
DPW has 19 vendors with 31 pieces of equipment signed up — fewer big trucks than in past years — and statewide every municipality is competing for the same scarce plows. Providence pays vendors about 20% more than the state does.
Sidewalk snow clearing gap
A resolution pushes RIPTA to do a better job clearing snow and ice from bus stops, which members said endangers riders. Councilwoman AnderBois added that the state should fully fund RIPTA, noting workers were shoveling stops themselves.