Here's your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 19th of August.
Good morning, Providence.
📰 Economy
Governor Dan McKee faces growing warnings about Rhode Island’s economy—government jobs added 500 in July while private positions fell, leaving the unemployment rate steady at 4.8.
University of Rhode Island economist Leonard Lardaro warned the state may slip into a recession as the RI Public Expenditure Council reported a declining labor force and rising unemployment.
🏛️ Government
Today, Mayor Brett Smiley and Police Chief Oscar Perez announced a new Real Time Crime Center at police headquarters that uses live video feeds from public and private cameras—funded with $1 million from the U.S. Department of Justice—to help officers respond faster to incidents.
The center, built by Fusus and Constant Technologies, has strict oversight and privacy safeguards and invites businesses to voluntarily share their camera feeds to support public safety.
Providence officials closed Thomas, Angel and Benefit Streets today from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the east side to let a film crew shoot J.J.
Abrams' new movie Ghostwriter plus the Point Street Bridge will shut from 8 a.m. Sunday to 9 a.m. Monday for filming.
🏥 Health
Union workers at Butler Hospital voted overwhelmingly Monday to approve a new contract that ended a strike which began on May 15.
The hospital said it will soon post details of a return-to-work plan—services that were cut during the strike will be restored for patients.
📰 Real Estate
High Rock Development remains committed to redeveloping the Superman Building after the death of its president—legal counsel Michael Crossen will now lead plans to convert the vacant property into residential housing with work set to accelerate in 2026.
The project will maintain its existing financing plan and is expected to create jobs and boost housing opportunities.
🎉 Providence Events
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Fungi Exploration Walk
6-7:30 p.m. — Washington Park Library — Free entry — Discover the wonders of fungi while exploring nature on a walk to Roger Williams Park.
Apes of the State Concert
7-11 p.m. — The Met — Ticket pricing varies — Experience the energetic performance of Apes of the State live in Pawtucket.
Acoustic Performance by Milton J
12-6 p.m. — Doomed Records — Free entry — Experience thunderous beats and soul-stirring melodies from singer-songwriter Milton J.
Bonsai Workshop
6:30-8:30 p.m. — Rhodium Room Distillery Bar — Price TBD — Enjoy crafting tiny trees with friends while sipping drinks at the distillery.
Farmer’s Market at Dexter Park
3-7 p.m. — Dexter Training Ground — Free entry — Enjoy fresh produce and local goods while soaking in the community atmosphere.
Adjust The Sails Concert
5-8 p.m. — Alchemy — $15 adv. / $20 dos — Enjoy a night of live music with Nervous Surface at this all-ages event.
The Lemonade Stand 2025
4-10 p.m. — 195 District Park — Free entry — Celebrate local artistry and community spirit at this engaging showcase in Providence.
lowheaven Live Concert
6-9 p.m. — The Parlour Providence — $15 adv. / $18 dos — Experience an eclectic night with lowheaven and supporting bands.
Rhode Island Bitcoin Meetup
6:30-8:30 p.m. — Moniker Brewery — Free entry — Connect with fellow Bitcoin enthusiasts at the longest-running Bitcoin group in Rhode Island.
Community Paddle Days
5-7 p.m. — Riverside Park — Free entry — Enjoy a brief canoeing experience with Spanish and English-speaking guides along the Woonasquatucket River.
🏠 Providence Real Estate
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💼 Providence Job Board
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📣 Providence Announcements
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