Epic Storm Shuts Down EP

February storm overtakes Blizzard of 1978
It was 48 years ago when all of Rhode Island was crippled by the Blizzard of ’78 which dropped about 29 inches of snow with higher drifts across the state.  The ’78 storm came without much warning and occurred with schools in session and many residents at work.  People struggled to drive home during that surprise snowstorm with many stranded at their workplace or away from home.  Several East Providence students were left stranded at the Providence Marriott Hotel for almost a week. Manny Vinhateiro, who was a ninth-grade civics and history teacher then, had a group of students attending the state’s first Project Insight session at the Rhode Island State House and the Superior Court.  Once the storm hit everyone was told to get home as soon as possible.  The streets quickly became impassable and Vinhateiro and his students were forced to trudge across Smith Street to seek shelter at the Marriott Hotel.  “We were there with our students from that Monday until Saturday.  Six days of supervising these kids in the hotel.  It was a daunting task,” recalls Vinhateiro.  Eventually East Providence Police Chief Anthony DeCastro arranged for the National Guard to come and pick up the students and bring them to the police station.  Similar stories like this happened throughout East Providence.  Many were stranded away from home, plows couldn’t move for days and many lost power for a week or more.  Cars were abandoned on roads where the snow stopped them.  Since then every big storm was compared to that ’78 blizzard.

The ’78 storm record for snow accumulation was shattered by the February 23, 2026, blizzard with nearly 40 inches of snow.  East Providence schools were shut down for an entire week, scheduled to resume on March 2^nd.  City Hall remained closed for three days and most activities came to a halt.  All trash collections were canceled and would resume on March 2^nd, a week later.  The Governor issued a state of emergency and issued a travel ban on all vehicles.  East Providence enacted a citywide parking ban as the department of public works began the arduous task of plowing snow from the city’s some 160 miles of roads.  Large scale power outages never materialized with the exception of an area in the Kent Heights neighborhood due to a blown transformer.

“The historic Blizzard of 2026 left over three feet of snow. Our City of East Providence Public Works has been working to make our city safe nonstop through this event. We are currently in the mop up phase, where we are looking to widen roads, remove large snow banks and hit the sidewalks abutting city properties,” said Mayor Bob DaSilva in one of many communications to the general public. 

During the early days of the storm many businesses and some residents donated food to a tired crew of public works plow drivers.  “We are so grateful for the great people and small business owners who call East Providence home and who showed so much love for our City of East Providence Public Works plow drivers during this historic Blizzard. The tired workers really appreciated the donations as they took brief breaks,” said DaSilva.

DaSilva listed some of the businesses who stepped up with donations: Berta’s Red Bridge Tavern, Lucky’s Irish Pub, Kevin Matos from the newly opened Cafe Alma, Good Neighbors non-profit, John Oliver and Joey Cantone of The Local and Moving Dough Pizza Co. Even a member of Girl Scout Troop 117 donated a case of cookies NAVAD Bakers, McShortagee’s Market and Miller’s Famous Sandwiches. Donations included food and gift cards. Trinity Brotherhood Club has also advertised a free fish sandwich event for “all our dedicated DPW workers, police officers and firefighters.”  Others may have donated by the time this story is published. 

“The community has rallied to pull together during this storm.  As an example, thank you to Providence Country Day School. I saw their piece of equipment clearing their sidewalk. With our staff busy on the roads and or recovering and catching some rest, I contacted Kevin Folan director of school at PCD and he was able to have his staff help clear the sidewalks around the senior center. Real community partners,” added DaSilva.

City seeks help with snow removal
“I just got off a call with Governor Dan McKee, Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency and municipal leaders. We are working with our state partners to deploy Rhode Island Department of Transportation plows and other resources to municipalities to help clear city roads. Additionally, the East Providence School Department staff are out helping plow city roads and we have called in retired City of East Providence Public Works to come help man some of our plows,” writes Mayor DaSilva on social media outlets.

EP Schools Closed for a Week
All schools remained closed all week and were “old fashioned snow days” without the virtual learning that this generation of students have come to know.  The week before the storm was a school vacation week.  Students did not have their chrome books at home that they would use for virtual learning.  The school department issued a statement on the closure of schools: “There are a number of moving parts that go into a decision (to cancel) like this. We need to be confident that buses can travel safely on side streets, that staff can get into the city without issue, that roads are thoroughly plowed, and that school parking lots, sidewalks, and grounds are fully cleared. Given the amount and weight of the snow from this storm, cleanup has required larger equipment than what the school department typically has on hand. We are coordinating closely with the city to make sure both our roads and school properties are addressed as quickly as possible, always with safety as the top priority.

The citywide parking ban also remains in effect. It’s extremely important that residents follow the ban, as cars left on the street slow down plowing operations and make it harder to clear bus routes and main roadways. To help residents during this time, several school parking lots are available for off-street parking.

Based on the current conditions and the work that still needs to be done, it does not appear that we will be able to reopen schools this week. Unfortunately, distance learning is not feasible since elementary Chromebooks were not sent home over the break. At this point, we are planning to return to school on Monday, March 2.  The Commissioner of Education will be requesting that the Rhode Island Board of Education waive the two State of Emergency days. We will continue to keep everyone informed as more information becomes available.”

Cities Allowed to Dump Snow in the Bay
The RIDEM has allowed communities to dump loads of snow in certain waterways due to the amounts of snow on streets and sidewalks.  A press statement said: “Based on the current extreme conditions, waterways may be used in accordance with the following conditions:

Dispose of snow in open water with adequate flow and mixing to prevent ice dams from forming; Do not dispose of snow in coastal or freshwater wetlands, eelgrass beds, vegetated shallows, vernal pools, shellfish beds, mudflats, outstanding resource waters, drinking water reservoirs and their tributaries, Well  Head Protection Areas (WHPAs), or other areas designated by the state as being environmentally sensitive; In coastal communities, preference should be given to disposal in salt water if it is available; Do not dispose of snow where trucks may cause shoreline damage or streambank damage or erosion; and consult with appropriate municipal officials to ensure that snow disposal in water complies with local laws.”

School Department workers assist in snow removal
School department maintenance workers also helped the city DPW staff with snow removal beyond their school responsibilities.  “I want to recognize and thank the East Providence School Department maintenance and facilities staff who will be assisting with snow removal efforts across the city. Their willingness to step in and support our community reflects their continued dedication to East Providence, even beyond their responsibilities within our schools.  Their efforts should help ensure our city can recover more quickly and safely after the storm, and their commitment to service does not go unnoticed. I extend my sincere appreciation for their hard work and support of our community,” said School Committee chairman David Luiz.

Meeting on future of former Meadowcrest School (Oldham pre-school)
A new meeting date has been set for a community discussion on what to do with the former Meadowcrest School building which now houses the city pre-K program.  When the new pre-school facility on the grounds of Martin Middle School opens next year, the Meadowcrest building will be vacated.  “Please join us on Thursday, March 19, 2026 from 6:00–7:00 PM at the Riverside Middle School Library (179 Forbes Street) for an open community conversation about the future of the Meadowcrest Elementary School building (PK building on Bart Dr.).

This is your opportunity to share ideas, learn about current conditions and possibilities, and help inform next steps,” writes school board chairman David Luiz.

The meeting has become somewhat controversial as rumors have gone out that there may be a plan to propose housing units at the Meadowcrest property on Bart Drive.  In a social media post, Ward 4 councilman Rick Lawson wrote, “I was led to believe that when the pre-k wing at Martin was complete the pre-k will leave Oldham opening the building to alleviate the overcrowding at Waddington Elementary School. I was surprised to hear there is a possibility the school will be closed and converted to more housing. Let me be very clear, I will fight this to the end. Riverside needs two elementary schools.”  Lawson has major disagreements with DaSilva over housing proposals that may be up for discussion.

“I want to address something that has been circulating regarding Meadowcrest School,” writes School Board Chair David Luiz.  “There is absolutely no truth to the claim that Meadowcrest is being considered for conversion into housing. No conversations have taken place, no proposals have been discussed, and there are no plans to repurpose Meadowcrest for housing.  Unfortunately, misinformation spreads quickly, and it’s important that residents have accurate information. Meadowcrest School is not under consideration for housing,” he added.

“Thank you, school committee chairman David Luiz, for clearing the air and sharing factual information.  Unfortunately, the current ward 4 councilman has a hard time with discerning between facts and fantasy. The first I ever heard of housing at Meadowcrest was when this council person started putting out this false narrative.  I look forward to attending the public meeting the school department scheduled to hear more,” responded DaSilva.

Confusion may exist because there may be a proposal to include some housing at the former Oldham School on Bullocks Point Ave which is a different site from the former Meadowcrest school on Bart Drive which had also been called Oldham.

City supporting affordable housing opportunity
On Tuesday, February 17th the East Providence City Council gave final passage to a new tax exemption that will create more affordable housing opportunities throughout the city.  The tax exemption, known as the live/work affordable deed restricted properties classification, will now give those who own a residence in which they own and operate a business within the same premise they live, a tax exemption.

For residents to be eligible, they must own an affordable housing deed-restricted property, live in the property as their primary residence and must own and operate the business located within the same parcel.  An affordable housing deed-restriction is defined by City Ordinance as “a legally recorded restriction, recorded within the City Clerk, that limits occupancy or resale of the unit to low- or moderate-income households for a period of 30 years or more”.

“One of the things I hear regularly from those in East Providence and across the state is the lack of affordable housing,” Mayor Bob DaSilva said. “The City of East Providence continues to lead the way by working with nonprofit organizations and creating new legislation and zoning laws to find creative ways to bring more affordability to our city.”

“This ordinance creates an opportunity to develop more mixed-use affordable housing that offers owners the ability to gain financial stability and growth,” DaSilva added.

“The proposed exemption aims to help with local housing challenges,” Council President Bob Rodericks said. “Affordability, whether renting or buying, is one of the main concerns I hear from the community. People have enough to worry about with the high energy costs in our region, combined with other housing expenses.  This doesn’t solve the entire housing crisis, but it is a tool that can help,” Rodericks added.

Under this new policy, properties with deed-restricted affordable residential live/work units will be eligible for an exemption through an application process, granting qualified owners a reduced annual tax bill. These properties will not be taxed entirely at the commercial rate. Instead, the owner-occupied residential portion will be taxed at the residential rate and will also qualify for any residential exemptions offered by the city. This change helps preserve the affordability of these unique affordable live/work spaces and supports the city’s commitment to accessible housing opportunities.

“It is great to lead the charge to promote this aspect of live/work properties,” Council Vice President Frank Rego said. “This legislation now gives East Providence residents the opportunity to run a business and have a place to call home at an affordable rate.”

“This is just another example that shows East Providence is a leader in housing throughout the state, as we continue to redevelop blighted properties and build new.”

Public Hearing on changes to Chapter 19 Zoning Ordinance
Consideration of proposed amendments to the City of East Providence Zoning Ordinance. These changes can be heard on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at 6:30PM at City Hall.  Proposed is a Citywide Inclusionary Zoning requirement. The ordinance would require that residential developments of 10 or more dwelling units set aside a minimum of 15% of units as affordable per the definition in RI General Law, with the exception of developments utilizing Tax Increment

Financing (TIF) with the City which shall provide a minimum of 20% affordable units. A density bonus of 1.5 market rate units per each affordable unit required would be granted.

Specifically, the following sections will be amended, altered, changed, or created in Chapter 19 Zoning:

Article IX, Section 19-485 – Eliminates details in existing Waterfront Special Development Inclusionary Housing regulations in favor of a Citywide regulation.

Article XI, Section 19-499 – Addition of Citywide Inclusionary Zoning regulation

Anyone wishing to be heard on the proposed matter should be present at the aforementioned date and time. At the public hearing, opportunity shall be given to all persons interested to be heard upon the matter of the proposed amendments. The amendments in their entirety are available on the City’s website at https://eastprovidenceri.gov/departments/planning-economic-development. Amendments can also be requested by contacting the East Providence Planning Department at planning@eastprovidenceri.gov or (401) 654-4288 or at City Hall, 145 Taunton Avenue, East Providence, RI 02914 room 309.

City launches 2026 Remarkable Women Campaign
The City of East Providence is celebrating the achievements of women in East Providence and throughout the world by proclaiming March Women’s History Month and March 8, 2026, International Women’s Day in East Providence.  “We all have a remarkable woman in our lives, oftentimes they go unrecognized,” Mayor Bob DaSilva said. “This is a great opportunity to uplift and recognize those remarkable women that we know, that have impacted our quality of life and the quality of life of our residents.”

The administration is also kicking off its 7th Annual Remarkable Women Recognition Program and is asking for the community’s help in recognizing women in East Providence who have demonstrated extraordinary accomplishments that have had a positive impact on the community.

During the months of March and April, Remarkable women will be recognized and celebrated for their impact in the community.

“By nominating and honoring the Remarkable Women in the City of East Providence, we are recognizing the women in our lives who carry the same traits and qualities of the role models and

trailblazers that came before us,” DaSilva added.  If you know a remarkable woman, please fill out and submit a nomination form. Deadline to submit nominations is March 23rd. Please submit a detailed nomination describing why you feel this person deserves the recognition of Remarkable Woman. Please include detailed examples of their accomplishments and impact on the community.  Send to email it to

Mayorsoffice@eastprovidenceri.gov with “Remarkable Woman” in the subject line.

Women’s History Month

Remarkable Woman Nomination Form

Woman being nominated:

Full Name: ___________________________________________

Organization: __________________________________________

Address: ______________________________________________

Phone: __________________ Email: _______________________

Recommending Individual:

Full Name: _____________________________________________

Phone: __________________ Email: ________________________

Jason Botelho Announces for East Providence City Council, Ward 4
The Jason Botelho for City Council committee has released a candidacy statement:  Jason Botelho announced his candidacy for Ward 4 of the East Providence City Council, representing Riverside, where he was born and raised.

Botelho’s family roots in East Providence span multiple generations who have lived, worked, and raised families in the city. He attended East Providence public schools and graduated from East Providence High School in 2001. He has owned his home in the city for nearly 10 years.

“For these reasons, I care deeply about the decisions we make today and how they will shape East Providence for future generations,” Botelho said.

Botelho said he is running to bring practical experience and a fresh perspective to the City Council by collaborating with residents and local leaders to address the challenges and opportunities facing the city. As a small business owner, he brings experience in budgeting, making careful decisions, and finding practical solutions.

“I believe our tax dollars should be used efficiently and transparently to provide residents with the best possible services,” he said. “Working together to balance priorities and achieve results is essential to serving our community.”

Botelho emphasized the importance of responsible planning as East Providence continues to grow. He said the city must maintain and improve infrastructure— including housing, roads, and public facilities— while protecting the character, green spaces, and quality of life that residents value.

“Thoughtful, balanced growth will help our city adapt to changing needs while preserving what makes East Providence such a great place to live,” Botelho said. “The best decisions are made by listening to community leaders, local organizations, and residents.”

Botelho said he looks forward to meeting with neighbors and members of the community in the coming weeks and months to discuss the issues facing the city. Residents can contact him directly at JasonBotelho4Ward4@gmail.com.