Earlier today I visited the state-of-the-art, CHPS-certified Providence Career & Technical Academy to sign an Executive Order requiring that all new municipal buildings are LEED or CHPS certified, nationally accepted benchmarks for the design, construction and operation of high-performance green buildings. As I stood on the school's roof, surrounded by high-tech solar hot water panels, I reiterated our emphasis on renewable energy and sustainable design. This is about ensuring that we are making smart decisions about school construction and municipal office space while creating green-sector jobs for our residents.   This was the first of thirty clear and measurable goals I have set for the City of Providence as part of Operation Opportunity. The goals ranging in scope from education and entrepreneurship to infrastructure and public safety spread over an 18-month period. I launched this initiative in February to focus on our local economy during these difficult times and prepare for the future by expanding economic opportunities for Providence residents and businesses, and leveraging federal recovery funds.  

Click on this link to watch a brief video of the press conference.