Providence’s oldest cemetery, North Burial Ground (NBG), is set for major improvements guided by a new master plan developed by landscape architecture firm Towers and Golde. The City’s Parks Department held a community visioning session on June 1 to gather resident input. Established in 1700, NBG’s infrastructure is aging, with about six miles of paved roads in poor condition and drainage issues. The city has allocated $1.25 million for upgrades in its 2027-2031 Capital Improvement Plan. The master plan aims to restore the cemetery’s historic grandeur and improve circulation, signage, and parking. Other priorities include landscaping enhancements, perimeter and fencing improvements, and exploring new revenue sources.

The plan also addresses Randall Park, a narrow city park bordering NBG, which currently lacks amenities and clear signage. Community members expressed interest in maintaining natural areas like the esker and pond, rich in wildlife. The cemetery staff is exploring adding structures such as a pavilion or gazebo to support events and provide a dedicated space for on-site services, which are currently held only graveside. The master plan seeks to balance historic preservation, visitor experience, and future programming.