Providence, R.I. – The newly‑owned Providence Place mall announced a comprehensive security upgrade aimed at protecting families and shoppers throughout the day. Effective immediately, anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult, regardless of the time of day. The rule expands on the previous policy that only applied after 5 p.m.
Enhanced Personnel and K‑9 Presence
Pyramid Management Group, the firm that recently acquired the mall, said the security team will be staffed by employees with “law enforcement and military backgrounds, supported by advanced training in defensive tactics, gang recognition and crowd control.” Retired State Police K‑9 units have also been deployed on the premises to deter violent incidents and assist with crowd management.
Owner Emphasizes Safety as a Core Goal
Joe Paolino, co‑owner of Providence Place and former mayor of the city, explained that safety has been a top priority since the change in ownership. “People ask, ‘Is the mall safe? Not safe?’ That’s a goal of ours – to make it one of the safest shopping experiences you can have in Rhode Island,” Paolino said.
Shoppers Respond Positively
Long‑time patron Robert Dais praised the visible security presence. “I feel safe, I see their security here and I’m glad that it’s in place,” he said. “I’m hoping the mall continues to beef up security.” Dais added that the new rules strike a balance between protecting families and preserving the freedom to enjoy the mall.
Some Community Concerns
Not all visitors welcome the stricter age requirement. Local resident Susan Price expressed disappointment, saying, “I don’t really think there should be an age restriction. Limiting that limits the things you can do with your friends when you’re young.” Bailey Regan echoed the sentiment, noting that the mall has traditionally been a place for teenagers to gather with friends.
Management’s Rationale
Paolino clarified that security personnel will not necessarily be stationed at every entrance to check IDs, but the policy is intended to send a clear message about the mall’s commitment to safety. “When I was young, I hung out at the mall too, so I can see that it’s a great place to congregate with your friends, and I want that to be the case, but we also all deserve to be safe,” Dais said, reflecting the management’s aim to balance security with personal freedom.
Proven Framework from Other Locations
Pyramid Management Group cited results from its other mall, Destiny USA in Syracuse, New York, where the same security protocols have led to a 50 percent reduction in property crime, a 75 percent drop in overall incidents, and a 90 percent arrest rate for serious offenses. The company expects similar outcomes at Providence Place.
Looking Ahead
The new measures are part of a broader effort to restore confidence in Providence’s downtown shopping district. As the mall continues to monitor the impact of the policy, officials say they will adjust staffing and procedures as needed to ensure both safety and a welcoming atmosphere for families and young shoppers alike.
Original reporting: NBC 10 WJAR (Sinclair) – local — read the source article.
