The Providence Riverwalk and Waterplace Park, cherished downtown cultural landmarks since the 1990s, are facing challenges related to flooding and accessibility. To address these issues, the City of Providence, in partnership with Arup US, launched the Providence Riverwalk Resilience Project in summer 2024 to redesign and enhance the area’s infrastructure. On December 11, the third public engagement meeting was held to gather community feedback on proposed designs. Over 30 residents, including students and retirees, participated, with translation services available for Spanish speakers.

The project aims to create a new ADA-accessible shared-use path between Francis and Steeple streets, add seven new ADA access points, improve connectivity and public safety, and raise the Riverwalk above future flood levels. Plans also include replacing the pedestrian bridge at Waterplace with an ADA- and bike-accessible structure, removing unsafe tunnels, and installing adaptive traffic signals and stormwater filtration systems. Additionally, naturalizing riverbanks and demolishing hardened walls are intended to enhance water quality and habitat.

City officials emphasized the project’s goal to strengthen infrastructure, improve accessibility, and revitalize the area to meet current and future needs. The initiative represents a continuation of Providence’s longstanding efforts to transform its riverfront for public benefit.