Barrington Awarded $230K For Walker Farm Shoreline Improvements

BARRINGTON, RI —The Department of Environmental Management has awarded Barrington at $230,745 matching grant for shoreline improvements at Walker Farm, the kayak and rowing launch area on the Barrington River.

Barrington legislators Sen. Cynthia A. Coynce, Rep. Jason Knight and Rep. Liana Cassar announced the grants on Thursday.

"We are so fortunate to have a beautiful place like Walker Farm here in town where the community can go anytime to enjoy our pristine waterways. This funding will help make an incredible resource even more useful and accessible, and will encourage people to get outdoors and on the water for some healthy, refreshing recreation," said Coyne, who represents Barrington, Bristol and East Providence.

The grant will go toward expanding the gravel parting lot, building an accessible walkway to the new boat launch, install a new floating dock and platform and improve shoreline access for kayaks and rowers. There will also be additional benches, educational signs and plantings.

"We know that as the weather gets warmer, kayaking and canoeing will be especially popular as people look for safe ways to get out and spend time together," Cassar, who represents Barrington and East Providence. "They're naturally social distanced activities, and getting out on the water has the calming effect we could all use after the weeks of isolation we've been experiencing. These improvements to water access will no doubt be put to good use."

Said Representative Knight, who represents Warren and Barrington, said: "The improvements at Walker Farm will make it even easier for more people to try out paddling and rowing, with boats you can rent nearby. This investment is one more way to encourage people to be active and to get outside and enjoy fresh air and our beautiful environment."