Providence Plans Ambitious Public Space Makeover

Take a virtual tour of the new public spaces proposed in the Providence Unified Vision Plan.

1 minute read

July 21, 2021, 6:00 AM PDT

By James Brasuell @CasualBrasuell


Waterplace Park

ESB Professional / Shutterstock

The city of Providence recently released new design images as part of its Providence Unified Vision Plan, an ambitious effort to rethink public space in the city by focusing on Kennedy Plaza and surrounding area as well as the Woonasquatucket River waterfront, according to an article by Matthew Marani. 

The plan would "transform the [Kennedy Plaza] site into a functioning public square with substantial green landscaping, shade structures, expansion of pedestrianized areas, and amenities such as bathrooms, a cafe, a new performance stage, and a seasonal ice skating rink."

Along the Woonasquatucket River, the plan proposes improved access, a new resilient Riverwalk, a renovated performance area and an experiential mist ring installation suspended over the river.

According to Marani, the Vision Plan has been championed by Mayor Jorge Elorza. Arup worked with the city to complete the plan, creating a virtual tour of the proposed design.

Thursday, July 15, 2021 in The Architect's Newspaper

portrait of professional woman

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Cover CM Credits, Earn Certificates, Push Your Career Forward

Logo for Planetizen Federal Action Tracker with black and white image of U.S. Capitol with water ripple overlay.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker

A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

3 hours ago - Diana Ionescu

Metrorail train pulling into newly opened subterranean station in Washington, D.C. with crowd on platform taking photos.

Congressman Proposes Bill to Rename DC Metro “Trump Train”

The Make Autorail Great Again Act would withhold federal funding to the system until the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), rebrands as the Washington Metropolitan Authority for Greater Access (WMAGA).

June 2, 2025 - The Hill

Large crowd on street in San Francisco, California during Oktoberfest festival.

The Simple Legislative Tool Transforming Vacant Downtowns

In California, Michigan and Georgia, an easy win is bringing dollars — and delight — back to city centers.

June 2, 2025 - Robbie Silver

Bike Parking Utrecht Centraal Station

Supporting Cycling Takes More Than Just Bike Lanes

Safe, protected bike lanes are a key part of a city’s bike infrastructure — but secure parking, e-bike charging, and other amenities can also influence people’s shift to cycling.

30 minutes ago - Cities Today

A blue and white Sound Transit heavy rail commuter trail with downtown Seattle skyline in background.

Judge Blocks Anti-DEI Rules for Transportation, Housing Grants

A second injunction blocks the Trump administration from enforcing new regulations for federal funding.

1 hour ago - The Seattle Times

San Jose, California city hall with glass dome in front of modern multistory building.

Unhoused People in San Jose Could Face Arrest if They Refuse Shelter

A policy proposed by the city’s mayor would give law enforcement the option to arrest homeless residents if they refuse three offers of housing.

2 hours ago - Associated Press