Connecting to our past; building a brighter future

Mayor Scott Avedisian
Posted 10/2/14

On Sunday, I participated in the 6th Annual Preserve Rhode Island Celebration sponsored by the Rhode Island Historical Preservation and Heritage Commission and Preserve Rhode Island. Not only was I …

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Connecting to our past; building a brighter future

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On Sunday, I participated in the 6th Annual Preserve Rhode Island Celebration sponsored by the Rhode Island Historical Preservation and Heritage Commission and Preserve Rhode Island. Not only was I very proud that this event took place at Warwick’s beautiful Aldrich Mansion, but I was also honored that Warwick received a Rhody Award for our collective efforts to preserve City Hall. The spirit in the room was palpable, and it was uplifting to share this day with so many individuals who are dedicated to safeguarding our states historic character.

Since I took office, my administration has been committed to taking the necessary measures to preserve our beautiful City Hall. Eleven years ago, we completed the restoration of the Council Chamber. By recreating the historic paint scheme and installing new floors and seating, we have embraced our past and brought this stately room back to its former glory. It is always gratifying to see the reaction of visitors when they walk into this Chamber for the first time: whether they’re five or 85, they are in awe of what they see.

Last summer we began rehabbing the building’s facade, which included repairing and replacing decorative elements, installing new copper on the dome, reconditioning the weathervane and restoring the clock and the bell, to name just a few. This comprehensive project is a vital component of our plans to reclaim the village feel of Apponaug.

Recently, a long-time resident of our city told me how much he appreciated our work in restoring Warwick City Hall. He mentioned the iconic clock tower and said that when he was a child he would rely upon the bell tolling to let him know that it was time to go to school. He also said that hearing the bell toll again reminds him of his childhood, of days gone by and of his many fond memories of growing up in our wonderful city; a city that continues to be committed to historic preservation; a city that understands the importance of protecting the past, while investing in its future and a city that was recently named one of the best cities in which to live by 24/7 Wall Street.

Restoring Warwick City Hall was an enormous undertaking, which took a great deal of teamwork. I would like to thank E.F. O’Donnell & Sons, David Picozzi, director of Public Works, Joseph Blake, director of City buildings, Patricia Reynolds, preservation planner, and all who helped bring this project to its fruition.

Embracing historic preservation enhances property values, bolsters the economy, builds community pride and lifts our spirits. I salute all who continue to do their part to safeguard our state’s historic structures.

It is my hope that events like the Preserve Rhode Island Annual Celebration inspire others to join in. Breathing new life into these properties connects us to our past and builds a brighter future for generations to come to enjoy.

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