If it wasn't clear that Providence City Councilman John J. Lombardi was interested in running for mayor, his new Web site might do the trick.

On Wednesday, the Democrat, who represents Federal Hill, launched "Lombardi for Providence," a slick political Web site that doesn't outright say the six-term councilman is seeking to challenge incumbent Democrat David N. Cicilline in 2010, but it comes close.

"It's a Web site to keep me in touch with the people of Providence," Lombardi said on Friday. "People tell me that they are looking for change and that I represent change and I am honored by that."

Lombardi, a 57-year-old former council president, served about four months as mayor in 2002 following the resignation of Mayor Vincent A. Cianci Jr. On his site's front page, he says that the experience "profoundly and permanently" changed him.

Lombardi said that the Web site shows that he's "very serious" about considering a run for mayor. He said he has formed an exploratory committee to conduct citywide polls and focus groups. He has tapped North Providence resident Armen S. Janigian as his campaign manager and has raised $48,354 to date. "I'm exploring all the options," Lombardi said.

-- Philip Marcelo