Receiver for Providence Place Mall “Pauses” Parking Rate Hikes

Receiver for Providence Place Mall “Pauses” Parking Rate Hikes

The Providence Place Mall receiver announced on Wednesday night that it will pause the implementation of its parking rate increases, which were originally scheduled to take effect on June 1.

 

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As GoLocal reported last week, John Dorsey, the receiver, announced parking rates would increase by as much as 400%.

 

The announcement was highly criticized on GoLocal’s Facebook page — more than 600 commented on the announcement of the increase.

 

According to today’s announcement, “The decision comes following ongoing and meaningful feedback from tenants and members of the community, and reflects the mall’s commitment to thoughtful, inclusive planning and long-term revitalization.”

 

But Dorsey left the door open for the increase to be implemented. “A new timeline for any potential changes will be shared after these discussions are completed,” said the announcement.

 

Dorsey did not respond to the request to give some details on a potential new timeline.

 

“From the start of the receivership process, our commitment has been to responsibly strengthen and reposition Providence Place Mall for long-term success. That includes being open to new approaches to improving the mall—and being just as willing to pivot when appropriate,” said Dorsey. “We’re listening to our tenants and shoppers, and we take their feedback seriously. Our goal has always been to strengthen the mall as an attraction for businesses and visitors––not take away from that.”

 

The proposed updates were part of a broader strategy to enhance the guest experience, including long-overdue improvements to parking facilities, complementing the many improvement efforts already happening throughout the mall, from security to janitorial enhancements. However, we recognize that any parking changes must be developed in partnership with those who rely on the mall day-to-day.

 

As a result, Providence Place will not implement the new rates on June 1. Instead, the mall will initiate a broader engagement process with tenants to develop a parking plan that supports the mall’s future, while considering both parking garage maintenance needs and the needs of the community it serves.

 

“We’re committed to thoughtful stewardship of this property, and that includes open dialogue with those who help make the mall thrive,” Dorsey said. “After so many years of deferred maintenance and lacking management, we need to bring forward and test new ideas that help improve the mall—and refine them as needed. That’s exactly what we’re doing.”