Central Falls, RIDEM cut ribbon on new city bike path section

Central Falls, RI (November 17, 2021) – The City of Central Falls, joined by the RI Department of Environmental Management, officially cut the ribbon on a new section of the Blackstone Valley Bikeway. Funded by the state’s voter-approved RI Green Economy Bond, prior to completion of this off-road segment, the entire segment of the bikeway through Central Falls was an on-road bike path, which meant cyclists and pedestrians had to ride and walk on the street, sharing space with motor vehicles.

“Our new, beautiful bikepath stretch along the Blackstone River is another big win for our residents and visitors in Central Falls, in addition to the safety upgrades like new signage and markings on parts of the on-road path through our city streets," said Central Falls Mayor Maria Rivera. "I want to thank RI DEM for their incredible partnership to help make this possible, paid for by the RI Green Economy Bond Bikeway Development Program. I also want to thank our Planning Department for their important coordination and leadership to bring this to life, along with our Police Department and the Elisha Project for donating bicycles for students in our city to use on our new path. It's a beautiful season to get outside in CF!”

This new off-road segment provides city residents and visitors with access to the beautiful views of the Blackstone River and a safe, natural area to walk and bike.

"“It’s great to see the hard work being done in Central Falls to increase recreational opportunities for people in the City. Mayor Rivera and her team are doing an amazing job!” said Terrence Gray, Acting Director of the RI Department of Environmental Management. “Time outdoors is so important for our wellness and health. DEM is proud to support this project with a recreational grant from the 2016 Green Economy bond, which was overwhelmingly approved by voters. The bike path is the newest asset in the growing portfolio of great places and opportunities in the city.”

In addition to the new bike path section, this project included new Blackstone Bikeway signs along the entire route through CF, new street markings for pedestrian and cyclist safety, and a new painted bike lane on Charles Street that provides a separate lane for bikes.