2025-53 Supporting the Preservation of Fort Adams

THE CITY OF NEWPORT

RESOLUTION

OF THE
COUNCIL

No.2025-53

CITY OF NEWPORT RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL

IN SUPPORT OF FORT ADAMS TRUST AND INCREASED STATE FUNDING FOR
HISTORIC PRESERVATION AND PUBLIC ACCESS

WHEREAS, Fort Adams is a national historic landmark and an iconic cultural and recreational asset within the City of Newport and the State of Rhode Island; AND

WHEREAS, Fort Adams serves as a premier destination for heritage tourism, public events, outdoor recreation, and community engagement, contributing to the economic vitality of Newport and the broader region; AND

WHEREAS, Fort Adams Trust, a nonprofit organization, has played a critical role in the restoration, preservation, and activation of the fort, ensuring its accessibility and historical integrity for present and future generations; AND

WHEREAS, the preservation and enhancement of Fort Adams require continued investment in infrastructure, maintenance, and programming to fulfill its full potential as a public resource; AND

WHEREAS, state funding for Fort Adams has not kept pace with the needs of this historically significant site, limiting the ability to undertake necessary preservation projects, expand public access, and support educational and cultural initiatives; AND

WHEREAS, increased investment in Fort Adams will directly benefit Rhode Island’s economy by boosting tourism, supporting local jobs, and strengthening Newport’s standing as a hub for cultural and recreational activities; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT

RESOLVED, that the City Council of Newport strongly supports Fort Adams Trust in its mission to preserve, restore, and activate Fort Adams for public benefit; AND BE IT FURTHER

RESOLVED, that the City Council urges the Governor and the Rhode Island General Assembly to allocate increased funding to Fort Adams to ensure its long-term preservation and continued growth as a vital asset to the city and state; AND BE IT FURTHER

RESOLVED, that the City Clerk is directed to forward copies of this resolution to the Governor of Rhode Island, members of the Rhode Island General Assembly, the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management, and the Fort Adams Trust.

CHARLES M. HOLDER, JR.

IN COUNCIL
READ AND PASSED
MARCH 26, 2025

LAUR