GrowSmartRI — a coalition of local community leaders committed to sustainable and equitable growth based on urban and town center revitalization and public transportation options — has included a recent Riverside housing development among their list of recipients for the 2025 Rhode Island Smart Growth Awards.

The 13th Annual Smart Growth Awards, according to their description, “celebrate and honor the passionate, creative and resourceful people who continue leading the charge to strengthen Rhode Island through neighborhood revitalization, expanded housing and transportation choices, environmental stewardship, and economic opportunity that benefits the many, not just the few.”

Included among the recipients for the “Outstanding Smart Growth Projects” is “Residences at Riverside Square”, a recent housing development from One Neighborhood Builders at 336 Bullocks Point Ave. that was first proposed in early 2022 and finished its construction almost a year ago to the day in April of 2024.

The development provides 16 rental units, of which 100% are dedicated to low- to moderate-income earners, and includes three units set aside for youth aging out of the foster care system through a partnership with East Providence-based nonprofit, Foster Forward.

“The Residences at Riverside Square has transformed a contaminated former industrial site into 16 units of affordable housing for extremely-low to moderate-income households in East Providence, with three units specially designated for youth aging out of foster care,” the award description reads. “Its thoughtful design transitions smoothly between commercial and residential areas while maintaining appropriate neighborhood scale through traditional forms combined with modern details. Located near businesses and bus stops, the building maintains the street edge with parking in the rear and offers privacy through a landscape buffer. The townhouses, completed in 2024, feature covered stoops and fenced yards, while walk-ups share front and rear entries among six neighbors, achieving density without overwhelming the neighborhood character.”

Those interested in the awards show can register by clicking here. The ceremony takes place on Thursday, May 8 at 5:15 p.m. at the Providence Public Library (150 Empire St., Providence, RI 02903).