National Register of Historic Places
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation's historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service's National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America's historic and archeological resources.
The way a property gets listed in the National Register of Historic Places is that the forms and documentation go to the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) of the state where the property is located. The SHPO can take one of several options: reject the property, ask for more information, list the property just with the state, or send the forms for listing in the National Register of Historic Places. Once the National Register of Historic Places receives the forms, they conduct a similar review process.
Rhode Island Historical Preservation & Heritage Commission (RIHPCH)
The Rhode Island Historical Preservation & Heritage Commission (RIHPHC) is the state agency for historical preservation and heritage programs. The Commission operates a statewide historical preservation program that identifies and protects historic buildings, districts, structures, and archaeological sites. The Commission also develops and carries out programs to document and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Rhode Island’s people. The RIHP&HC also processes historic tax credits, loans, and grants.
Warwick’s Historic District Commission
Warwick’s three Historic Districts are rich in historic resources. They include Pawtuxet Village (Warwick side of bridge), Apponaug, Pontiac Village. Historic District Designation helps preserve those resources. Historic District Designation stabilizes and improves property values, fosters civic beauty and strengthens the local economy. A property owner’s investment in a historic neighborhood will not be undermined by new development that does not respect the character of the neighborhood.
City of Cranston
Despite two attempts by the Historic District Commission, the City of Cranston has yet to pass an ordinance designating Pawtuxet Village (Cranston side-north of the bridge) as a city historic district, nor the Edgewood area.
The Bottom Line
While the property might be listed with the National Register of Historic Places and/or the Rhode Island Historical Preservation & Heritage Commission, it is only the local (Warwick side of Pawtuxet Village) that requires an application and review for alterations of historically zoned properties. In Cranston, an application is required for specific zoning. It is best to check the respective city websites before any changes to a property.
For additional information, please visit our Preservation Resource page.
