LOCATION

Westerly, Rhode Island

TEAM

JP Walsh AIA Cherenzia & Associates Westerly Land Trust

CONSTRUCTION

Steve Jarzembek 2021-2022

awards

2021 Rhode Island Foundation Community Grant

This waterfront redevelopment supports a dining establishment adjacent to the Pawcatuck River on an underutilized lot as well as riverfront public access under the “Urban Coastal Greenway” program overseen by the Rhode Island Coastal Resource Management Council (CRMC).

The landscape maintains a riparian buffer along the existing sea wall of the Pawcatuck River and calls for native plantings and onsite stormwater management. Pedestrians may access the site from Main Street via an ADA accessible route to enter the site which includes a lawn area, shade trees, seating opportunities and a 25’ wide Urban Coastal Greenway along the riverfront. An outdoor seating area is proposed along the southern exposure to the building with raised garden beds for vegetables and herbs incorporated. All pathways and outdoor seating are proposed on flexible setting beds with permeable materials.  Street trees have been selected based on the guidelines in the Town of Westerly code with underground and overhead utilities considered.

The restaurant and adjacent open space provide an opportunity for a vibrant Town asset along a main thoroughfare of Westerly and support the goals of the comprehensive plan and downtown revitalization.