Providence Councilor Announces Opposition to Housing for the Homeless Project

Providence Councilor Announces Opposition to Housing for the Homeless Project

Providence City Councilor Pedro Espinal announced his opposition to a proposed development for housing for the homeless in his ward.

"In recent weeks, I have heard resounding concerns from members of my community regarding the Emergency COVID Housing Opportunity (ECHO) Village proposal that may be located at 545 Prairie Avenue in South Providence," said Espinal, who represents Ward 10. "While the House of Hope Community Development Center’s efforts to build a homeless shelter is noble and necessary, I share my neighbors’ deep concern that this location is not appropriate for this development."

Homelessness has grown during the pandemic and is expected to explode across the United States and in Rhode Island as eviction moratoriums expire. There are an estimated 4,000 in Rhode Island.

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Laura Jaworski, Executive Director of House of Hope, did not respond to multiple outreaches from GoLocal requesting comment on the Councilor's announcement.

"This homeless shelter is yet another matter which disproportionally affects the residents of South Providence. This neighborhood is constantly facing new threats to public health and safety. From the proposed garbage transfer station in 2020, to the more recent proposal to expand storage of liquid propane gas in the Port of Providence, why must South Providence continue fighting these battles?" said Espinal.

Espinal said, "While I believe that homeless shelters are needed in our city, I do not believe that building a shelter in close proximity to several schools, in a neighborhood with a number of other serious quality of life issues, is appropriate."