Does Providence Mayor Brett P. Smiley have the right approach to PVDFest?

This year’s PVDFest was widely cheered by vendors and revelers alike, a year after Providence Mayor Brett P. Smiley’s administration faced a torrent of criticism for unwelcome changes.

The weather may have helped win over more supporters this year, with sunny skies replacing heavy rain that soaked many 2023 vendors.

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But a return downtown was also praised by all sides, including local businesses.

The Sept. 6-7 event returned to downtown after Smiley relocated it to the 195 District Park along the Providence River. Last year’s location separated attendees from businesses that could have provided quick shelter from heavy rain.

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Smiley told PBN he’ll remain open to community-supported changes to the city’s biggest arts and culture event. But he likes the idea of it continuing to be held in September rather than the traditional June celebration.

Does Providence Mayor Brett P. Smiley have the right approach to PVDFest?