Downtown Warren one of ‘Great Places in America’

THE SCHOOLYARD MARKET in Warren. Downtown Warren was recognized as one of the 15 great places in America in the neighborhoods category by the American Planning Association. / COURTESY HOPE & MAIN
THE SCHOOLYARD MARKET in Warren. Downtown Warren was recognized as one of the 15 great places in America in the neighborhoods category by the American Planning Association. / COURTESY HOPE & MAIN

WARREN – Downtown Warren is one of the 15 Great Places in America, according to the American Planning Association, which announced the list on Monday.

The nonprofit association released the annual list, which featured five great neighborhoods, including downtown Warren, five great public spaces and five great streets around the country in honor of APA’s National Community Planning Month celebration.
Warren was noted by the APA as “ideal for bikers and foodies alike.”
“The tiny downtown area and its highly involved community have set the green standard for active living, while local foods have set the stage for a story of urban renewal,” it said. “Warren is the smallest town in the smallest county in the smallest state – and proud of it.”
The APA noted the East Bay Bike Path runs through the downtown and highlighted the local foods campaign that began in 2010 that led to the creation of Hope & Main, a food startup and incubator space for new restaurants.
The association said “unique and exemplary” streets, neighborhoods and public spaces are essential components of all communities; it said that the places recognized have been shaped by “forward-thinking planning that showcases affordable transportation options, promotes community involvement and accessibility, and fosters economic opportunity.”
“Our Great Places in America designees reflect the many facets that make up planning, including community engagement, economic benefits and quality of character,” Carol Rhea, president of APA, said in a statement. “These exemplary neighborhoods, streets and public spaces showcase the positive outcomes when a community works together to create communities of lasting value. It is an honor to recognize these outstanding places during National Community Planning Month and add to our distinguished list of great place designees.”
APA has recognized 260 neighborhoods, streets and public spaces around the country since launching the Great Places in America program in 2007.
APA also is seeking additional input from the public for the “People’s Choice” designee. Citizens can nominate their favorite Great Place by commenting on APA’s Facebook page, Twitter or Instagram feed using hashtag #APAgreatplaces. The “People’s Choice” Great Place designee will be announced on Nov. 2.
Rhode Island spots previously designated as great places included Newport’s Cliff Walk, and College Hill and Waterplace Park in Providence.

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