Historic District Commission

The East Providence Historic District Commission (HDC) is a seven member commission who are residents of the City, appointed by the City Council, that have a demonstrated interest in historic preservation, architectural history, planning, archaeology, historic construction, architecture, or local history.

The HDC reviews changes proposed by a property owner for a property located in a designated local historic district. A local historic district is an overlay zone approved by the City Council which may encompass a single parcel or more than one parcel to serve as a district. The purpose of a historic district is to safeguard historic structures and to preserve the special sense of time and place that exists in parts of our community.

Local historic districts preserve cultural, social, and architectural history, as well as encourage neighborhood pride, promote tourism, and create financial incentives for homeowners to invest in their property. In a historic district zone, all exterior alterations and new construction must be reviewed and approved by the HDC. Property owners located within a historic district must seek approval from the HDC for the construction, alteration, repair, removal or demolition which only affects the exterior appearance of a structure. The HDC’s decision is based upon the Standards of Review stated within the ordinance which require consideration to the following:

1.The historic and architectural significance of the structure and its appurtenances;

2.The historic character and ecological features of the surrounding landscape;

3.The way in which the structure contributes to the historical and architectural significance of a district; and

4.The appropriateness of the general design, arrangement, texture, and materials proposed in the plans.

Currently, the only designated local historic district is Hunt’s Mills, which is a 44 acre parcel owned by the City. However, the HDC is currently exploring areas of the City that possess the potential to be designated as a local historic district such as the colonial suburbs of Rumford, the remaining industrial infrastructure of Phillipsdale (i.e. mill sites, transportation facilities, and worker housing) and the former amusement parks of Riverside. Creation of a local historic district requires an extensive study to determine historic significance, public workshops to solicit opinions from the residents/businesses, and approval by the City Council.

The HDC meets the second Wednesday of every month at 7:00 PM in City Hall (dates may change due to holidays) and the public is always encouraged to attend. Meeting agendas are posted in the City Hall lobby 24 hours prior to a meeting, the Rhode Island Secretary of State’s webpage , and the City’s Calendar. For questions, please contact Patrick Hanner, Senior Planner at (401) 435-7533. For more information about local historic districts, please visit the Rhode Island Historical Preservation & Heritage Commission’s webpage .

Commission members:

Ned Connors, Chairman; Edna Anness; Claudette Field; Stephen Greenleaf; David Kelleher; Nancy Moore

Historic District Commission

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