11 Memorial Benches Being Added To Storer Park In Newport

NEWPORT, RI — Storer Park in Newport is going to get some new benches, and the memorial bench program is looking for applications of people or events in town to commemorate.

The city's Department of Public Services said it will accept 11 applications for memorial benches to compliment recent improvements made to the park.

The 6-foot long aluminum benches with Ipe wood slats were selected in coordination with the Point Association and are designed to stand up to the area's coastal environment. Each bench will cost $3,840 to install and will include an engraved memorial plaque.

Nestled in Newport's Point neighborhood, construction to rehabilitate Storer Park began in February 2020 and was completed about nine months later. The park features views of the Newport Bridge, a grassy pier, a basketball court and a 1,200-foot harbor walk.

Due to the park's popularity, city officials say they expect there will be interest in the memorial bench program. City officials encouraged residents to submit an application or reach out to the Department of Public Services at 401-845-5804 to inquire about availability. Applications will be accepted until June 10.

If the number of applications received by June 10 exceeds the available 11 bench locations, sponsorship selections will be made via a lottery. Applications are limited to one per household and payment should not be submitted with the application.

Applications can be downloaded here.

Additional memorial bench locations are also available in other parts of the city, including at Miantonomi Park and Braga Park, where a 6-foot bench with concrete legs and Ipe wood slats cost $1,262 to install.