With the economy in deep trouble and the state budget deep in red ink, it is easy to overlook some of the other issues that deserve attention. We hope the General Assembly has some focus to spare for an outrageous proposal being put forth by Reps. Joseph S. Almeida, D-Providence, Peter F. Kilmartin, D-Pawtucket, and Charlene Lima, D-Cranston.

Their bill would direct the state’s Department of Transportation to “sell, transfer and convey in fee simple” to Brown University and Johnson & Wales University certain parcels of land in Providence’s Jewelry District that are being freed up by the relocation of Interstate 195.

We have no doubt, as the bill contends, that the two institutions of higher learning would develop the property in a way that would be “beneficial to the city of Providence and the state and advantageous to the public interest.”

Isn’t it possible that even more advantageous ways to develop the land might emerge if the sale of these extremely attractive and valuable sites were the subject of healthy competition? The citizens of the state deserve at least that.

These public officials, apparently hoping their move would be overshadowed by the daunting tasks facing the legislature, would deny the state and its residents the benefits of a real, open market for these parcels.

We are big supporters of the city’s fine colleges and universities and of the knowledge-based Innovation Economy that they help to feed. So let them take part in the bidding as the city and state move forward with this historic opportunity to develop a new, vibrant, waterfront section of Providence. •