5Q: Brent Runyon

 / PBN PHOTO/MICHAEL SALERNO
/ PBN PHOTO/MICHAEL SALERNO

1 The Providence Preservation Society last year exceeded its fundraising goal of $60,000. How important is fundraising and what will these funds go toward?

We are an advocacy organization whose actions represent the community interest. … PPS relies on three primary types of revenue to sustain our operations: charitable, program-related and endowment. By far the most important to us is charitable giving.

2 What are PPS’ biggest issues of 2015?

Our 2015 list of 10 Most Endangered Properties was developed in coordination with the city, so we look forward to working with them on resolutions for each of those places. … As in the past few years, we are closely watching proposals for the former I-195 land. That land is the single largest opportunity for the city and state economy.

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3 What do you think about the pending proposal to build a minor league stadium on that land?

We are uncertain if we will hear a proposal from the Pawtucket Red Sox owners. If not, we will have a statement based on how a stadium can be a benefit for the city, in the location they have proposed, and what should be avoided, with regard to siting, massing, materials, etc. [Our position] … will focus on the stadium’s potential impact on the way people interact with the built environment around it, including the historic downtown, historic Jewelry District and waterfront.

4 How do you find equilibrium between revitalization, new development and preserving a city with such rich architectural history?

Those familiar with historic-preservation practice will tell you that any decision you make is not going to please everyone. Our goal is to ensure preservation of significant historic places as well as ordinary places that positively contribute to our quality of life. The diversity of historic architecture in Providence, whether it be commercial, residential, or industrial, is one of our greatest economic assets.

5 You’ve been PPS executive director for just more than a year. How would you reflect on your tenure and where you’re heading?

We’re in the middle of a strategic planning process. … Feedback from over 600 people let us know that this organization, which will be 60 years old next year, is still seen as relevant and critical to Providence’s future as well as its past. … In the next year, we have some strategic internal challenges to address, including what to do with the two Colonial-era buildings we own and how to use our 60th anniversary to reflect on the past and plan for the future. •

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