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Nora Barré has certainly been doing her homework. As executive director of the Downtown Providence Park Network (DPPN), she’s bringing renewed vibrancy to public spaces running from the Point Street Bridge through Waterplace Park to the Greater Kennedy Plaza, Burnside Park, Biltmore Park and the skating rink. “I’m obsessed with mid-sized cities that get it right,” she explains. “Tulsa, for instance, has dynamic public parks where everyone can gather. In Baltimore, Mr. Trash Wheel collects trash and floating oyster beds engage citizens in cleaning the harbor. It’s all about civic spaces belonging to the people.”

DPPN formed right after the COVID pandemic with a vision for parks and waterways that foster a flourishing, inclusive, and democratic downtown community. “We see downtown parks that stimulate economic vitality through free programming while providing vibrant hubs for recreation, culture, and connection,” Barré says. “It doesn’t always have to be a big spectacle, but people should be able to count on something happening regularly.”

Already, DPPN has presented the Lumina Festival featuring illuminated interactive artwork, organized public clean-up days, led boat tours of the hurricane barrier, and hosted a free Burnside Summer Concert Series. This spirit of experimentation also extends to larger initiatives. The Rhode Island Foundation recently awarded DPPN a $70,000 grant to fund a two-year action plan for expanded programming. “We stay nimble and opportunistic,” Barré says. “We just applied for a three-year NOAA grant to reduce marine debris and keep trash out of the bay—we’ve passed the first round nationally and are awaiting final approval.”

Key partnerships support DPPN’s mission. The Downtown Improvement District offers office space and programming support. Collaborations with the Woonasquatucket Watershed Council and Save the Bay enhance waterway stewardship. Together, they’re connecting public spaces and spotlighting the importance of clean rivers and bays. “I cherish partnerships,” Barré adds. “We need active, engaged collaborators—not just five-year plans that are never accomplished.”

The next big initiative is the “You Belong Here Wayfinding” project, backed by Commerce RI and the City of Providence. Colorful banners will adorn downtown parks, offering navigational guidance and celebrating Providence’s cultural and historical heritage. QR codes will connect visitors to interactive maps, event listings, and local businesses. Pop-up programming and art murals will further unify the theme, reflecting the city’s diverse cultures.

To ensure these efforts endure, DPPN is launching an endowment fund. “We need to diversify our funding and build a financially healthy, sustainable organization,” Barré explains. “Our board is working on a plan to allocate a portion of every donation to this endowment, with the Rhode Island Foundation’s expertise guiding us. Civic pride in public space is crucial, and we want to protect it for generations to come.”