Providence Mayor Vincent A. Cianci, Jr. has reiterated his desire to see Lupo’s, the landmark nightclub on Westminster Street, moved to some other location in the capital city.
Speaking at a City Hall press conference last Monday (Jan. 7) to announce the establishment of the Downtown Providence Security Network, Cianci outlined a busy first quarter for downtown.
Several projects, Cianci said, are moving along nicely. The mayor mentioned the relocation of Travelers Aid and the rehabilitation of several buildings in the city’s older core, which will bring long-awaited residential apartment units to Downcity area. He added that he hopes the city will soon reach an agreement that will result in a new address for Lupo’s.
"We love Lupo’s," said Cianci. "But we can’t have that kind of traffic at night. He ought to be paid reasonably for his efforts."
Cianci was referring to the club’s owner, Rich Lupo, who he said has had several discussions with the city. Cianci did not disclose where he thought the nightclub could be moved, but said there are a couple of sites being considered.
"Lupo’s will not leave the city," said Cianci. "We don’t want Lupo’s to leave the city."
Cianci said the nightclub does not fit in with the residential climate he hopes to create downtown.
In other city news, the mayor said groundbreaking for Nine Waterplace, a $50 million office tower planned for the corner of Francis Street and Memorial Boulevard, across from Providence Place, will take place some time next month.
"We will be breaking ground next month for an office tower across from the mall," he said.
The proposed building will have 220,000 square feet of office, 50,000 square feet of retail space and parking for 500 cars. It has a target completion date of early 2004.
As for the Downtown Providence Security Network, it represents a partnership of 25 security agencies, schools and other organizations that should better coordinate the security efforts of the private sector with those of the Providence Police Department.
The idea is to link private security firms and college and university security more closely with the Providence Police Department. Among the features of the initiative will be a dedicated radio channel used exclusively by the partners in the network, and specialized training for all of those involved. The initiative, said Cianci, will also place a high priority on increasing the presence of police and security officers downtown and on improving lighting.
Cianci praised Daniel Baudoin, executive director of the Providence Foundation, law enforcement officials and all of the partners in the effort for cooperating to make the initiative possible.
"Remember, no amount of urban revitalization, no amount of money spent, no amount of building refurbishing and construction is going to be effective if people have a perception that it’s not safe to come downtown…" said Cianci.
