In an op-ed by Barry Fain and Steven Triedman, Brown University is likened to an elephant in Providence—large and influential but sometimes inconsiderate of its community impact. While Brown contributes jobs and economic benefits to the city, the authors argue the university often acts as if Providence exists to serve Brown, rather than the other way around. They cite issues such as Brown’s demands for free parking and streets, which the university poorly maintains, and concerns over the recent rebranding of Lifespan to Brown University Health, which could complicate city negotiations.

The current controversy involves Brown’s plan to demolish four old, low-end student rental houses on Brook Street to build a new economics building. Neighbors and local officials have opposed the move, sparking heated debate and calls for eminent domain, although that is unlikely. The Providence Preservation Society criticized Brown for eroding the historic fabric of College Hill through decades of property demolitions.

While critical, the authors acknowledge the Economics Department’s national stature and argue for a more constructive solution: building a large parking garage topped with the new economics facility. This approach could address parking issues and preserve neighborhood character, benefiting both Brown and the wider community.