Future bookings at the Providence (RI) Convention Center increased 105% in 1997, reports the Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau. To achieve such growth, Providence has invested one billion dollars in reshaping the city. In addition to the new convention center, developments include a revitalization of the waterfront, a new downtown mall, and expansion of T.F. Green Airport. City leaders predict the boom will continue. Hotel occupancy rates have soared, and the city has attracted the interest of four hotel developers to meet the demand, says Mark Cestari, CVB president.*