Providence opens first public boat ramp

 Olivia Cianci

news@abc6.com

            Mayor Taveras welcomes Providence’s first public boat ramp today in Fox Point.

            The boat ramp, located near the Gano and East Transit streets intersection, is the first public boat ramp in the capital city, and the only public canoe and kayak launch site for over four miles of the Seekonk River stretch.

            “With the opening of Providence’s first public boat ramp, more city residents and visitors can enjoy our waterways,” says Mayor Taveras. “It’s important that urban residents have access to the water for safe and enjoyable opportunities for recreation here in the Ocean State.”

            Mayor Taveras signaled canoeists to launch from the deck by blowing a boat horn.

            Prior to the opening of Gano Park’s boat ramp, Providence only had one, privately owned boat ramp for it’s 14.2 miles of saltwater shoreline.

            The boat ramp was proposed in 2002 by Fox Point residents, but was stalled due to concerns about the project, including the quality of soil in the area.

            The $1.3 million project was funded by the City of Providence, RIDEM, and the US Fish and Wildlife Service.