Historic preservation in the Blackstone Valley has proven to be a particularly
effective means towards fulfilling several objectives, including downtown revitalization, riverfront renewal, open space preservation, community planning, housing, economic development and natural resource protection. Ultimately, reuse
of the Valley's mill buildings, housing, commercial spaces, bridges, trails, etc. forms
the backbone of saving its heritage in the everyday landscape.

Projects that re-use historic structures often are distinguished by attractive buildings, locations that are central or well served by transportation, and are comparatively cost efficient when judged against new construction of similar quality. Preservation projects may also involve removal of harmful contaminants from a building as well as from its surrounding environment. For these reasons, reuse of historic structures can be counted as an essential component of any comprehensive "smart growth" strategy.

Fortunately, historic preservation has deep roots throughout the Valley's
communities, and Worcester, Grafton, Cumberland, Glocester, North Smithfield, Pawtucket, and Providence all have enacted local historic districts. All others have properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and most have local historical commissions that spearhead preservation advocacy.

[ top, right photograph by Taintor & Associates Inc. ]