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Plans for Fox Point Parks

Plans for Fox Point Parks

+ trivia, murals, & real estate records

Oscar Punchak
September 02, 2024

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Good morning, Providence. This is PVD Current, the newsletter that’s as satisfying as a well-deserved break on Labor Day.

What to expect in today’s Current:

💡 Quick need-to-knows
Newport estate sells, setting 2024 RI record 💰
$4 Million to renovate Fox Point parks 🌳

Let’s get to it.

— Oscar Punchak

Tide Trivia

🛍️ Which historic building in Providence is known as the oldest indoor shopping mall in America?

A) The Arcade Providence

B) Federal Hill Market

C) Waterplace Center

D) Market Square

You can find the answer on the last line of the email.

Currents & Waves

💡 Quick Need-to-Knows

In observance of Labor Day, all city buildings will be closed today.
The Providence Public School District begins on September 3rd.

The updated Brassil Park. Source: @johngpvd on Instagram

$4 Million to Renovate Fox Point Parks 🌳

The city has allocated $4 million to enhance four parks in Fox Point, with Brassil Playground already completed and India Point Park currently undergoing $1.6 million in improvements. These updates at India Point Park include a new picnic area with additional tables, swings, playground enhancements, and shoreline protection work. However, public toilets are not included in this phase, and removing old utility towers is still being considered.

Cabral Park will receive a full rebuild for approximately $1 million, featuring new playground and ballfield areas, while Gano Park improvements are expected to cost $800,000, focusing on basketball court renovations and landscaping. Work at Gano and Cabral is set to begin in the spring and summer of 2025.

Rhode Island Receives $40M Grant for Literacy Improvement 📚

Rhode Island has received a $40 million federal grant to improve literacy instruction for students from birth through grade 12. Announced by U.S. Senators and Congress members, the Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE) will receive $6.4 million this year through the Comprehensive Literacy State Development (CLSD) program.

The funding aims to enhance literacy skills, especially for multilingual learners and students with disabilities, and will support professional development for educators. RIDE plans to provide subgrants to local agencies and partner with colleges to equip teachers with effective literacy tools. This follows a recent $5 million state funding allocation for instructional coaching in mathematics and English Language Arts.

Harbor Highlights

@squid.licker on Instagram

📸 A close-up of the new mural downtown.

Coastline Commerce

Newport Estate Sells for $10.8M, Setting 2024 RI Record 💰

The Orchard, a historic summer cottage in Newport, has sold for $10.8 million, making it the most expensive home sold in Rhode Island this year. The extensively restored estate features a mansion with 9 ensuite bedrooms, original details, and exquisite furnishings. Set on 4.75 acres, it includes the largest private heated saltwater pool in RI, lush gardens, and unique features like an Italian Temple “Folly.”