RI CRMC Metro Bay SAMP

Metro Bay SAMP

Narragansett Bay's largest urban waterfront, roughly 24 miles of shoreline bordering the cities of Cranston, East Providence, Providence and Pawtucket, is a largely untapped natural resource and economic engine. It was the site of industrialization and progress and over the years has become outdated and underutilized. The cities are now acting to make this region of Narragansett Bay a more appealing place to live and work by improving the economic, social and environmental resources of the working waterfront; attracting major developers with more predictable and efficient permitting; and providing recreation and access to the water.

The Metro Bay Special Area Management Plan (SAMP) aims to accomplish these goals and provide a functional framework for future environmentally and economically sensitive redevelopment of the SAMP boundary encompassing most of the waterfront in the four cities. The Coastal Resources Management Council is coordinating with the cities of Cranston, East Providence, Providence and Pawtucket, as well as government agencies and community organizations to prepare the SAMP.

This plan also represents a milestone for the CRMC, as it will update and revitalize the Providence Harbor SAMP that the CRMC developed more than 20 years ago. Since that time, the cities of the upper Narragansett Bay have prospered from economic growth and cultural renewal, as well as a renewed appreciation for the waterfront and its natural values. These changes have, of course, brought challenge, as cities struggle to balance redevelopment goals and efforts to provide public access to the water.

The Metro Bay region is an important natural resource for Rhode Islanders. The CRMC is committed to creating a SAMP that protects this important natural and economic resource and honors the upper bay's special history and heritage.

CRMC to celebrate Metro Bay SAMP with sign unveiling

Metro Bay SAMP Information

Metro Bay SAMP Web Site

Metro Bay SAMP Interactive Map

Woonasquatucket River and Promenade Street District: Recommendations for Management

Metro Bay SAMP Natural Hazards and Floodplain Management Working Paper (PDF)

Common Questions Concerning the CRMC Urban Coastal Greenways Policy (PDF)

Urban Coastal Greenways

Cover Thumbnail Urban Coastal Greenways Policy for the Metro Bay Region – Amended 9/26/07 (PDF)