Spring 2020: Update for Ward 5
Honoring a Dear Friend, Plus Ongoing Ward 5 Projects
Ward 5: We Are In This Together
Due to concerns around COVID-19 I have had to cancel my regularly scheduled monthly community meetings at the Mt. Pleasant Community Library.
These meetings have become a vital part of how, we as neighbors, have been able to share ideas, concerns, and for me to provide neighborhood updates.
A Friend & Mentor
I introduced a resolution to honor the life and legacy of Armand E. Batastini, Jr. at the April 16th City Council meeting.
As many of you know, Armand was an important part of the Ward 5 Democratic Committee, and served our neighborhood at the State House, and through his selfless dedication to community sports. '
For those of you who might not have known him, he was a founder of the Elmhurst Little League program and volunteered with them for decades, and was also a basketball coach at St. Pius CYO for over 61 years.
It was my honor to request that the City’s Flag above City Hall be flown at half-staff on Saturday, April 18, in honor of Mr. Batastini’s service to the City he so dearly loved.
Armand will be missed by all those who knew him, especially myself. You can read more about his incredible life his dedication to the service of others below.
Progress on the Parkway
You may have noticed that Pleasant Valley Parkway has recently undergone some major improvements, and I wanted to provide you with an update:
The Pleasant Valley Stormwater Management Project is almost complete; crews are resetting sunk and broken curbs, leveling storm basin and addressing drainage in preparation for repaving; crews are finishing the install of new ADA compliant crosswalks; work will begin soon to install raised crosswalks at the bridges; and the small island at the base of Fallon Avenue is being shortened.
Stay tuned for more updates!
Capital improvements in Ward 5
Pleasant View Elementary School & the Armand E. Batastini Jr. Recreation Center
As spring quickly turns to summer, I'm thrilled to share that through my investment of our precious Capital Improvement Plan funding, I was able to secure the resources for improvements for the fields at Pleasant View Elementary School and the Armand E. Batastini Jr. Recreation Center.
The projects are nearing completion, and you will see a new concession stand, bleachers, field improvements, irrigation system, but most importantly - restrooms! I look forward to when we can enjoy this great new space together, when we are able to gather in groups again!
Please drive by and see the amazing work the contractors have done!
Below is a list of all the completed and ongoing projects in Ward 5 to date:
Reminder About Safety in the Ward
As I mentioned in a news item last month, there has been an uptick in car break-ins, and other worrisome activity in and around the ward. I wanted to take this opportunity to share with you some easy and effective ways to keep you and your property safe from potential break-ins as recommended by Lt. David Allen of the Providence Police Department:
Safety Tips
Leave your porch lights on throughout the night, and if you have motion detector lights - make sure they are in working order.
Keep your car doors locked, and remove all valuables from your car. Don't give anyone a reason to want to break-in to your vehicle.
If you are able, invest in external camera's that are visible to any potential criminal. There is data that shows that home's with outside cameras, or doorbell camera's are less likely to be targeted.
If you are going out of town, leave lights on and let your neighbors know that you are traveling - be sure to let them know when you are leaving and when you are returning. If you see something, say something.
If you feel like there is a suspicious vehicle or activity happening on your street call the non-emergency Police line at 401-272-1111.
As always, I will continue to advocate for the quality of life issues important to our neighbors and the residents of Providence.
Until we can meet again, I look forward to continuing our meaningful conversations here.
Jo-Ann Ryan, Majority Leader
Providence City Council
Councilwoman - Ward 5