The revitalization of Valley Falls Heritage Park transforms a historically layered site into a dynamic, inclusive public space that honors its indigenous, industrial, and ecological past while fostering new community-oriented programming. This carefully crafted design balances conservation with contemporary needs, creating a flexible and engaging park that reflects the diversity and vitality of Cumberland’s residents.
Located along the Blackstone River at the boundary of Cumberland and Central Falls—an Environmental Justice community—the park serves as a crucial open space resource. Indigenous communities historically relied on the river for transportation and sustenance, but European colonization and industrial expansion dramatically altered the waterway’s hydrology. Significant damming operations disrupted fish migration, impacting both the ecosystem and the communities that depended on it. The park’s redesign acknowledges these historical shifts while restoring ecological connections and offering new perspectives on the river’s evolving landscape.
Drawing inspiration from the site’s industrial history, the design references the historic mill and its architectural footprint, integrating remnants of the past into a contemporary framework. Overlooks, plazas, and curated sightlines highlight the site’s rich topography and hydrological features, inviting visitors to engage with the park’s history in a meaningful way. New infrastructure and ecological interventions, including tree plantings and native vegetation, enhance biodiversity while improving visibility and accessibility.
The revitalized park fosters social equity through thoughtful programming and spatial flexibility. Designed to complement the nearby Amaral Building Community Center, the park supports wellness initiatives, education, and workforce training. By creating adaptable gathering spaces and circulation paths, the project encourages year-round activities, from seasonal events to quiet moments of reflection along the river’s edge.
Community engagement was central to the design process, ensuring that the park’s transformation aligns with local needs and aspirations. Public events, focus group meetings, and one-on-one outreach efforts facilitated meaningful dialogue, culminating in a ‘storytelling and community dinner’ where artist Felipe Alvarez visually captured community sentiments in real-time. These efforts underscore a commitment to participatory planning and cultural sensitivity, fostering a renewed relationship between residents and the land.
With an emphasis on historical continuity, ecological resilience, and inclusive design, the Valley Falls Heritage Park revitalization exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to public space. By weaving together past and present, the park not only preserves its storied legacy but also sets the stage for a more vibrant, connected future.
Valley Falls Heritage Park
Location: Cumberland, Rhode Island, USA
Landscape Architect: Stoss
Collaborators:
StarLuna Consulting
Fennessy Consulting
Bryant Associates
Client: Town of Cumberland
Image and Text Credit: Stoss
