Boards & Commissions - Downcity Design

Overview

In 1994, the City created the Downcity District, an overlay zoning district designed to: direct development downtown, protect the historic and architectural character of downtown, encourage round-the-clock pedestrian activity, promote the arts and entertainment, and support residential uses.As shown on the map below, the Downcity District is bounded by Smith Street on the north, I-195 on the south, the Moshassuck and Providence Rivers on the east, and I-95 on the west.

The Downcity Design Review Committee (DRC) was appointed by the Mayor to administer the Downcity regulations, which are contained in Section 502 of the Providence Zoning Ordinance.The DRC is authorized to: conduct design review, grant waivers for non-conforming uses and dimensions; review demolition of buildings, and grant special incentives for development that fulfills the purposes of the district.

The area shown on the map above as Capital Center (bounded by Smith Street, Exchange Terrace/West Exchange Street, I-95 and the Moshassuck River) is a Special Development District designated by city ordinance 2-361 through 365. All Downcity District properties within Capital Center are exempt from DRC review as long as the Special Development District exists. The Capital Center Commission has design review authority in this area.

click here to see the DRC's upcoming meetings