5/12/2026
NEWPORT’S DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC SERVICES NAMED ONE OF AMERICA’S TOP PUBLIC WORKS LEADERS BY APWA
First Public Works Professional in Rhode Island to Receive Honor
NEWPORT, RI (TUESDAY, MAY 12, 2026) –Newport’s longtime Director of Public Services has been recognized as one of the nation’s top 10 public works leaders by the American Public Works Association (APWA).
The honor, given to
William R. Riccio, Jr., P.E., was announced in the run up to the annual national Public Works Week, and marks the first time the award has been given to a Rhode Island public works professional.
As one of the most coveted and prestigious public works awards, the
Top Ten Public Works Leaders of the Year award is presented to 10 individuals from across the country in recognition of their professionalism, expertise, and personal dedication to improving the quality of life in their communities through the advancement of public works services and technology.
A respected leader in public works, transportation planning, and municipal management, Riccio has dedicated more than three decades to advancing infrastructure policy, community planning, and public service throughout Rhode Island and New England.
4/30/2026
Parking Season Begins May 1st
Metered, Residential Permit Parking In Effect throughout Newport
NEWPORT, R.I. (THURSDAY, APRIL 30, 2025) – The City of Newport’s paid parking and residential
permit programs are set to begin on May 1st.
In addition to streamlining its Residential Parking Permit program by introducing a new online payment and application portal at newportri.cmrpay.com Newport residential parking pass holders will once again be entitled to three free hours of parking in every metered space across the City, as well as the Mary Street Parking Lot. Parking at Easton’s Beach will also be free for Newport residents throughout the summer with no need to purchase a separate parking pass.
4/16/2026
Liberty Tree Planting to Mark Arbor Day Celebration
Community Invited to Celebrate America’s 250th
NEWPORT, R.I. (THURSDAY, APRIL 16, 2026) –The City of Newport will be celebrating Arbor Day this year with a special celebration and Liberty Tree planting in honor of America’s 250th anniversary.
Hosted by Newport’s Tree and Open Space Commission and Newport Historical Society, this year’s ceremony will be taking place at William Ellery Park, located at the intersection of Thames and Farewell Streets. Honors will be provided by the Newport Artillery Company.
In addition to serving as a kickoff to the City’s 250th celebrations multiple presenters will focus on the significance of the Liberty Tree, the park and the role of Newport and its residents in the fight for liberty. The highlight of the day will be the replanting of the City’s official Liberty Tree; a 20-foot American Elm generously donated by the Preservation Society of Newport County.
The festivities are scheduled to begin on Friday, April 24th at 1:30 p.m. and all are welcome and encouraged to join in.