Good morning, Providence.

After a serious crash on June 25 at the intersection of Route 101 and Route 94 in Foster, RIDOT said it will speed up plans for a new traffic light that was approved in June to improve safety.

Lawmakers approved $5 million for hiring, accreditation prep (a key move for launching a proposed medical school at the University of Rhode Island) and curriculum planning to set the stage for advancing the initiative.

Social Security benefits for July 2026 will be sent on schedule, with SSI checks arriving on July 1 and retirement payments on July 8, 15, and 22.

The agency will move to fully electronic payments and update debit card services as Fifth Third Bank replaces Comerica Bank.

Seven communities, including Providence, exceeded the 4% property tax cap in the fiscal year ended June 30 due to rising school construction debt and the end of federal aid—cities like Pawtucket and Woonsocket received permission, and Barrington, Cranston, East Greenwich, and North Providence have been cleared for next-year increases.

The Rhode Island Department of Health said on Thursday that a raccoon in Fox Point tested positive for rabies on June 24 and another raccoon collected near Hope Street is being tested, with no human exposures reported.

RIDOH advises residents to secure garbage cans and keep pet vaccinations current.

Revolve Dance Project: Revolutions

2-5 p.m. — The Strand Ballroom — Cost information not provided — Celebrate five years of artistic collaboration with new works of live music and dance.

Eric Johanson Concert

7-10 p.m. — The Parlour Providence — Tickets available — Experience sharp songwriting and exceptional guitar skills by Eric Johanson.

Chatty Cats Gathering

4-5 p.m. — Wanskuck Library — Free entry — Connect with fellow cat lovers over snacks, coloring, and crafting cat toys.

Open Studio at Makerspace for Adults

6:00 – 7:30 p.m. — Knight Memorial Library — Free entry — Explore your creative projects with access to cutting machines and other makerspace equipment.

Recycled Sewing Workshop

3-5 p.m. — Wanskuck Library — Free entry — Upcycle and repurpose fabric in this all-ages sewing session.

Arcadia - Arcade Music Festival

July 4th — 165 Pub — Cost not specified — Experience a vibrant celebration of arcade music in Providence.

Annual Cape Verdean Independence Festival

Time TBD — India Point Park — Free entry — Celebrate the rich culture of the Cape Verdean community in the oldest festival of its kind in the U.S.

Elway Concert

7-10 p.m. — Alchemy — Tickets starting at $39 — Elway is coming for an unforgettable live music experience in Providence.

Read More, Learn More!

2:30-5:30 p.m. — Washington Park Library — Free entry — Unlock the magic inside every story with Ms. Carol's engaging sessions.

MindTravel with Murray Hidary

7-9 p.m. — Temple To Music — Ticketed event — Experience a unique live-piano performance designed to foster mindfulness and connection.