Providence Unveils Plan To Revitalize Crook Point Bridge

PROVIDENCE, RI — Big changes are coming to Providence.

On Wednesday, Mayor Jorge Elorza unveiled the design to remake the Crook Point Bascule Bridge, preserving the historic landmark while making it and the surrounding area an interactive, community space.

"As we continue to think about infrastructure in new and creative ways, the preservation and reimagining of the Crook Point Bridge unlocks novel ways to engage and connect with our existing environment," Elorza said. "This remarkable vision combines our history with our future, repurposing the structure as an illuminated beacon for residents and visitors to enjoy for generations to come."

Last October, the city put out an open call for designs to creatively reuse the bridge. The winning proposal came from Horsley Witten Group & Jonathan Harris, a Providence-based firm.

The proposal calls for the creation of a new, riverfront public space, with two piers, spaces for public events, shoreline restoration, affordable housing opportunities and more. The most eye-catching part of the design would be the full illumination of the bridge using glowing light bars, which would display art installations where the railroad ties currently sit.

"We are honored to be chosen by the City we love for a project that is dear to our hearts," the firm said in a statement. "The three of us use and enjoy this stretch of the riverbank and we feel invested in its future. We have spent our careers planning, designing, and engineering to provide great places for people and public access for all, so the recognition here at home in this inspiring place is very special. We look forward to participating as the City's exciting vision unfolds."

The bridge, also known as the Seekonk River Drawbridge, was built in 1908. It previously connected the old Union Station to the New York, New Haven and Hartford Railroad Line. Since 1976, it has been fixed in the upright position.

"The City of Providence is committed to preserving our infrastructure by creating a new life for old architecture," said Bonnie Nickerson, the city's director of Planning and Development. "Where there is opportunity for structural restoration and reuse, it is our obligation to think creatively about how we can produce useful and exciting new areas that positively contribute to our City."

About 80 applications were submitted, the city said. Of these, five finalists were selected in February to take part in the second round, which included $1,000 to create a more detailed submission. As the winning firm, Horsley Witten Group & Jonathan Harris will receive $10,000.

More information about the proposal is available on the city's website.