Newport Historical Society Breaks Ground on Resource Center

The Newport Historical Society has broken ground on its project to modernize its facility at 82 Touro Street.

A new driveway, entrance and elevator will provide accessibility to the building, and internal improvements will create a modern collections storage and research facility. The plan preserves most of the property’s greenspace and both mature trees.

The addition and rehabilitation of the building has been designed by NewPort Architecture LLC, and Farrar & Associates are the construction managers. Working with the NHS staff, the team created a phased plan for the project, which will focus on the exterior work this fall, and move inside the building next year. Results will include:

• Watertight integrity to the entire building.
• ADA compliance, and increased collections safety, with installation of an elevator.
• New electrical, plumbing and environmentally efficient HVAC systems to the entire. building, which will provide “climate mediation” in a green, economical, and minimalist approach to museum controls.
• New entranceway and welcome/reception area.
• Renovated collections storage, re–search and work spaces.
• New accessible parking.
• New accessible restrooms.
• Reconfigured office spaces to accommodate modern uses.

“These improvements will allow the NHS to present itself as it is and will be a modern, highly functioning institution. Collections will be properly stored and protected, and the building will function effectively for researchers, visitors and staff,” said Executive Director Ruth Taylor. “The Society is actively raising money for these improvements and welcomes any expressions of interest and support.”

Anyone with questions about the project is encouraged to call Ruth Taylor at 401-846-0813 x105 to schedule a tour of the worksite and viewing of the plans. The total cost for all work on this site is projected to be under $3 million, and work will be completed some time in 2015.