Providence, Rhode Island
Nestled in the smallest state in the nation, those moving to Providence, Rhode Island will discover a small-town atmosphere mixed with all the advantages of big city progress. Supported by its commitment to historical preservation, thriving art district and a hip nightlife, Providence, Rhode Island is a city proud of its past and optimistic about the future. The city is home to affluent neighborhoods, miles of beautiful coastline and ample opportunity for economic prosperity.
History:
As the British Sugar Act levied heavy taxes on sugar and molasses, the city quickly became a leading advocate for American independence from Britain. The American Revolutionary War would bring troops to the city and created additional trade opportunities. Following the war, the Providence economy shifted from maritime to manufacturing. And for the next 100 years, the city flourished in textile and jewelry manufacturing. In 1900, the City of Providence became the official capital of Rhode Island. Nevertheless, the Great Depression played no favorites, and economic decline erupted throughout the area. Following the depression, as life seemed to be improving, the New England Hurricane of 1938 flooded nearly all of the city’s downtown area. Organized crime took over the city of Providence as reconstruction of the flooded areas was underway. From the 1950s well into the 1970s, Providence was known as the heart of the New England Mafia. A positive turnaround would come between 1975 and 1980 when millions of community development dollars were poured back into the city. Today, Providence continues to takes pride in being accepted as one of the country’s most progressive cities.
Economy:
Providence is a commercial, industrial and financial hub of New England. With an economy based on service enterprises and manufacturing, the city works as a significant supplier of silverware and jewelry to the U.S. as well as Europe. The city’s excellent transportation facilities make the city a significant industrial hub, with scrapping metal, automobiles, petroleum products and conventional being the primary commodities handled at the port. As the capital of Rhode Island, Providence also supports a number of government-related jobs. The city has a labor force described as mature, educated and efficient. The city’s fastest growing occupations are professional and technical, and employment growth continues expanding in the hospitality, service and financial sectors. Tourism and conventions are other growing industries; however, they are not yet considered major economic contributors.
Tourism:
For those who love the outdoors, you’ll be happy to know that the Rhode Island is packed with 400 miles of coastline and numerous ocean beaches with great surf and miles of stunning vistas. . But that’s not all the city has. Whether you choose the area’s pristine beaches, magnificent coastal bikeway or shopping, you will enjoy every minute of you journey through this cozy city. The city’s renowned restaurants, award- Enjoy one of the city’s famous seafood eating spots or doze off listening to the waves crashing on the sand. While you’re at the beach, take time to build a sandcastle with the family or spend some time fishing into the open waters of the Atlantic Ocean. When things cool down, the nightlife in Rhode Island heats up. Stop in one of the local sport bars or trendy nightspots for a few late night cocktails before heading off to sleep.
Colleges/Universities:
• Rhode Island College
• Brown University
• Rhode Island School of Design
• Johnson & Wales University
Interesting Facts:
• Providence was one of the country’s first cities to industrialize.
• Rhode Island boasts the highest number of skilled workers per square mile in the country.
• During protest against British taxation, one man ran around Providence crossing out the word "Tea" anywhere it could be found.
Helpful Links:
• Providence Real Estate
• Providence Dental Offices
• Providence Insurance
• Providence Box Companies
• Providence Moving Companies