Rhode Island Environmental Officials To Begin Improving Black Point Trails In Narragansett

NARRAGANSETT, RI — A project to improve the hiking trails overlooking the bay at Black Point in Narragansett is set to start in March, according to the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM).

Costing around $90,000, the work aims to limit erosion on parts of the rutted, packed-dirt paths and improve access with the installation of timber steps at a heavily trafficked fishing and sightseeing area, while minimizing impacts to the sensitive shoreline habitat surrounding the trails.

Officials with DEM and the Nature Conservancy (TNC) said the work is being done in a way that will allow the existing trail to remain largely open to the public during construction. State officials said a new trail footprint will be set about 800 feet southeast of the parking area at 655 Ocean Road.

Located a mile north of Scarborough State Beach, Black Point is a free, DEM-managed, public fishing access area that is used by recreational anglers fishing for striped bass, tautog, scup and more. The walking trails offer clear views of Narragansett Bay and are frequented by walkers, hikers, runners, fishers, birdwatchers and photographers.

"Black Point is one of the most picturesque public recreation and fishing areas in Rhode Island —and one of the most heavily used," DEM Deputy Director Jason McNamee said. "As in many places, the trails at Black Point are integral to preserving open space and providing public access to our state’s precious and unique natural shore environments. DEM appreciates our partnership with The Nature Conservancy in improving these trails for enhanced passive recreational use and public access to this important shore fishing area, and we’re glad to acknowledge the important roles played by the Friends of Black Point and Rhode Island Saltwater Anglers Association in ensuring public access to this special place."

DEM bought the 40-acre Black Point tract in 1989. The funding for the project originates from a $6 million settlement through the Bouchard Barge 120 Buzzards Bay Trustee Council, following the grounding of an oil barge in Buzzards Bay and Narragansett Bay in 2003.

It resulted in the spill of nearly 100,000 gallons of oil, damaging 98 miles of shoreline in Massachusetts and Rhode Island including the Black Point area. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration awarded the trustee funds to TNC and is providing technical assistance on behalf of the trustee council.

DEM has received the appropriate permissions from the Coastal Resources Management Council to begin the work. Access for construction will be at the southern end of the parking area.

DEM officials expect a small excavator, dump truck, and hand tools to be used. A small section of the parking lot may be used for temporary material storage and will be cordoned off with temporary fencing.

DEM anticipates that the project will take two to three months to complete, weather permitting. Narragansett Dock Works Inc. is the contractor.