News Summary
Cathedral Square in Providence is facing severe deterioration, prompting city officials to announce plans for its revitalization. Originally designed as a vibrant public space, the square now presents safety and accessibility challenges. Local officials are preparing immediate repairs and long-term strategies to restore the area, including community input for a comprehensive redesign. With the aim to revive its intended purpose, Cathedral Square hopes to once again attract visitors and serve the community more effectively.
Providence—Urgent measures are necessary to restore Cathedral Square, an area located in front of the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul, which has significantly deteriorated in recent years. Originally designed by notable architect Patrick Charles Keely and urban planners I.M. Pei and Zion & Breen, Cathedral Square was envisioned as a vibrant pedestrian space featuring sculptures, a fountain, landscaping, and lighting. This once-thriving plaza now presents safety concerns and accessibility issues, prompting local officials to outline both short-term and long-term plans for its revival.
The City of Providence bears the responsibility for maintaining Cathedral Square, but has faced substantial criticism for its apparent inaction. Ninety-six year old Cathedral Square, which was intended as a pedestrian oasis, is now described by architecture critics as “one of the dreariest places in downtown Providence.” Reports highlight that the area’s conditions have worsened since these statements were made four years ago, with issues such as mobility hazards and nearly impassable pathways contributing to an environment that feels unwelcoming.
In response to the critical state of Cathedral Square, city officials have announced plans to stabilize the stairs and mitigate immediate mobility hazards. The city is also working with the Department of Planning and Development to develop long-term strategies aimed at transforming the space into a welcoming public area that effectively manages stormwater and attracts more visitors. Funding for these initiatives has already been included in the Capital Improvement Plan, signaling a commitment to revitalizing the square.
An engineering firm is expected to be chosen in the coming spring to begin design work for the necessary repairs. Under current conditions, the only maintenance done is limited to the stairs beneath the building overhangs, which are managed by the Cathedral Development Group. The surrounding areas, however, remain city property and have experienced a significant decline in both safety and attractiveness, evidenced by the presence of homeless encampments along Jackson Walkway.
In addressing the declining condition of Cathedral Square, urban design experts suggest that injecting more activity into the space may enhance its vitality. Ideas for revitalization include the possibility of restoring limited automobile traffic, which could encourage a steady flow of visitors to the area. There are also numerous suggestions for community involvement and enhancement of the square’s features, such as the addition of cafes and the restoration of the iconic “beehive” fountain originally designed by Pei.
Local residents, including advocates for urban renewal, are calling for a comprehensive redesign of Cathedral Square. They stress the importance of including the community’s voice in the redesign process to ensure that the space effectively addresses safety concerns and aesthetic shortcomings. As plans are developed and executed, the hope remains that Cathedral Square can regain its intended purpose as a lively pedestrian plaza, honoring its architectural legacy while serving both the local community and visitors alike.
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Additional Resources
- GoLocalProv: Decay Dominates Cathedral Square
- GoLocalProv: More Ideas for Fixing Cathedral Square
- The Rhode Island Catholic: A Divine Day in Providence
- The Rhode Island Catholic: Diocese of Providence Mourns Bishop Louis E. Gelineau
- Wikipedia: Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul (Providence)
