OSCAR

We are so quick to point out the challenges of our state, but January 2011 is a time to celebrate our strengths and the opportunities before us. Emerging opportunities for Rhode Island to enter the world stage come as a result of several current and significant local developments: the removal of an interstate highway through a dense downtown district opened almost 20 acres of newly developable urban land; unprecedented political churn with newly-elected Mayor and Governor both voicing commitments to environmental sustainability and economic growth as a City-State; the continued growth and success of OSCAR and its data-driven decision making pilots, like Green the Knowledge District ; and a city-wide initiative to boost Providence’s position in the knowledge economy.  These opportunities demand a new, collective vision for Rhode Island, and they have propelled leaders of Providence and Rhode Island via OSCAR to recognize that if great change can occur, it can happen here with our will and capacity.