On a mission to strengthen our state
Grow Smart RI's mission is to lead and engage Rhode Islanders in advancing neighborhood revitalization, environmental stewardship, and economic opportunity for all.
20+
Years of experience
10x
Recipient of awards recognizing our work
15,000+
Growing network of email subscribers, social media followers, and event participants
All 39
Our work focuses on improving quality of life for residents in every town and city in our state
The Start of A Movement
Our Story
Grow Smart RI grew out of a spring 1997 conference that attracted 600 concerned citizens and representatives from organizations and agencies working on the issue of “sprawl” in Rhode Island. Discussions prompted by the conference identified the need for a flexible but focused organization to link these groups and educate citizens, business leaders and elected officials about the impacts of sprawl and about state and local policies and strategies to combat sprawl.
In the 24 years since our founding, Grow Smart RI has developed a broad and powerful coalition that includes business and religious leaders, university presidents, builders, realtors, historic preservationists, environmentalists, affordable housing experts, municipal planners and others. Our coalition’s accomplishments led to an Environmental Merit Award from EPA’s Region 1 Office and a Preservation Advocacy Award from Preserve Rhode Island.
We have a vision. A bold one.
Here’s what we’re working towards:
Rhode Island will be a national model for smart growth and inclusive, informed decision making …
A place where every person benefits from flourishing neighborhoods and downtowns, restored and protected natural resources, and a just, thriving, and resilient economy.
How We’re Getting There
- Revitalizing our town and city centers
- Making our transit system more robust
- Restoring and protecting our natural resources
What We’re Doing
- Research and Analysis
- Policy Development
- Thought leadership and advocacy
- Convening and collaboration
- Raising public visibility and awareness
Grow Smart RI’s Mission Statement
To lead and engage Rhode Islanders in advancing neighborhood revitalization, environmental stewardship, and economic opportunity for all.
Our Office
144 Westminster Street, Suite 303
Providence, RI 02903