Town Newsletter (8/19/26)

Top photo; U.S. Senator Jack Reed addresses attendees at Barrington’s Park & Ride, along County Road, about federal funding for Massasoit Avenue sidewalks, bottom photo; U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse joined Barrington Police Chief Michael Correia, who serves as the Rhode Island Police Chiefs Association President, to address the push for final passage of Whitehouse’s Promoting Police Leadership Act.

(Photos courtesy of Sen. Reed’s office and Town of Barrington)

Senators Reed and Whitehouse Highlight Investments in Barrington’s Future

Barrington welcomed U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse for separate events showcasing federal support for projects that will enhance public safety, strengthen local infrastructure, and invest in the community's future.

Sen. Reed joined Town officials and the Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) to announce $800,000 in federal funding for a new sidewalk project along Massasoit Avenue. The project will improve safety, accessibility, and connectivity along one of Barrington's busiest walking and bicycling corridors. Design work is underway. The federal earmark is part of an estimated $2.59 million project supported by federal, state, and local funding which includes funding for the new sidewalks on New Meadow Road from Christine Drive to Deep Meadow Road.

Also, Sen. Whitehouse joined Barrington Police Chief Michael Correia, president of the Rhode Island Police Chiefs Association, along with Rhode Island Law Enforcement officials, representatives from Roger Williams University and Family Service of Rhode Island, to highlight the Promoting Police Leadership Act. The bipartisan legislation would establish a national framework for advanced training of law enforcement commanders, emphasizing leadership development, officer wellness, accountability, resource management, and stronger community relations. The bill passed the U.S. Senate unanimously and is awaiting consideration in the House of Representatives.

Together, these visits underscore continued federal support for initiatives that improve Barrington's infrastructure, enhance public safety, and strengthen the community for years to come.

- Contributed by the Offices of U.S. Senator Jack Reed

and U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse

(Photo courtesy of Town of Barrington)

Updated 2026 Voter Information

See the latest information for the Party Primary Election on Wednesday, September 9, 2026

Important Dates:

• Wednesday, August 5th – Mail Ballot Drop Box Opened for the Party Primary Election, Barrington Town Hall (drop box in front).

• Wednesday, August 19th – Mail Ballot Application Deadline, by 4:00 p.m. (Barrington Town Hall, Town Clerk’s Office) Apply Online for a Mail Ballot at the Secretary of State’s website at https://mailballot.sos.ri.gov/.

• Thursday, August 20th through Tuesday, September 8th – Early Voting at Barrington Town Hall (Council Chamber, 2nd Floor) during regular business hours; early voting ends at 4:00 p.m. on September 8th.

Please Note: Town Hall is CLOSED on Monday, September 7th – Labor Day. Usual Business Hours:

• Monday, 8:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
• Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• Friday, 8:30 a.m. to noon

• Wednesday, September 9th – PARTY PRIMARY, polls open at 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Town Clerk’s Office is closed to all business other than Board of Canvassers.

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You can also use the Secretary of State’s “Look Up” tool to find your polling locations by address.

See the Voting Information Center on the Secretary of State's website

- Contributed by the Town of Barrington

Top photo; Cyclists on the East Bay Bike Path during the Freedom to Ride Bicycle Parade, bottom photo; Food Truck Fridays event. (Photos courtesy of Town of Barrington)

Join BPAC’s Friday Bike Rides to Food Truck Fridays with Rhody Food Trucks

Following the tremendous success of the Freedom to Ride Bicycle Parade during Barrington’s 250th anniversary celebration, the Bicycle-Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC) is inviting the community to keep the momentum rolling with two additional Friday Bike Rides.

The family-friendly rides will take place on Friday, August 28th, and Friday, September 18th, beginning at 5:30 p.m. Riders will travel together to Food Truck Fridays at Police Cove Park, where they can enjoy great food and community fellowship.

The ride begins at South Lake Drive near the East Bay Bike Path and follows the bike path north to Haines Park, where participants will make a U-turn at Narragansett Avenue, then continue south to Police Cove Park. See the bike route map for additional info: https://www.barrington.ri.gov/DocumentCenter/View/2917/Bike-Parade-map. Limited parking is available near the north entrance to the nature path on South Lake Drive, but participants are encouraged to walk or bike to the starting location if possible.

Cyclists of all ages and abilities are welcome, and participants may also choose to walk, jog, roll, or join the ride at any point along the route. Riders are reminded to obey all traffic signs and signals and use caution when crossing intersections.

Bring your family, friends, and neighbors for an enjoyable evening of recreation, community, and great local food.

- Contributed by the Town of Barrington

(Photo courtesy of AAA)

Let’s Keep Our Roads Safe As Students Return to School

Barrington schools open for the 2026 – 27 school year on Wednesday, August 26th, which means more children will be walking, biking, and riding buses around town. Let’s all do our part to make sure they get to and from school safely.

When you see a school bus with its red lights flashing and stop arm out, remember — it’s time to STOP. This applies in every direction unless you’re on a divided highway.

And don’t forget about crosswalks! Slow down, watch closely for children, and be extra careful during the busy drop-off and pick-up hours.

By driving carefully and staying alert, we can make the first days of school, and the entire year, safe and welcoming for all of Barrington’s students.

See additional tips for Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety for All - www.safemotorist.com/pedestrian-and-bicycle-safety/

- Contributed by Town of Barrington

(Photo courtesy of Tom Kutcher, Rhode Island Natural History Survey)

Protecting Our Coast: Barrington Partners with Narragansett Bay Reserve

Barrington preliminarily teamed with the Narragansett Bay Research Reserve to discuss the Salt Marsh Restoration, Assessment, and Monitoring Program and strengthen the community's coastal resilience. As sea levels rise, local salt marshes must move inland to survive. This budding collaborative effort brought together local leaders, state experts, and scientists to safeguard the Town’s natural buffers against future storms and flooding.

A Collaborative Coalition for Climate Resilience

Protecting these natural resources requires a unified approach. Key stakeholders from across the community and state recently gathered to discuss these important coastal components and begin deciding whether to request an assessment. Stakeholders include:

• Town Leadership: Representative from the Town Council and Planning Board.
• Environmental Stewards: Advocates from the Conservation Commission, Open Space Committee, Resilience and Energy Committee, and Barrington Land Conservation Trust.
• Community Spaces: Leaders from the Resilience Garden and the Parks and Recreation Commission.
• State and Non-Profit Experts: Specialists from Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RIDEM), the state Resilience Office, Save the Bay, and Narragansett Bay Research Reserve.

Next Steps: Scientific Field Assessment

The immediate focus of the partnership is to turn data into action. A dedicated Wetland Scientist, Tom Kutcher from the Rhode Island Natural History Survey is preparing to conduct an in-depth field assessment at the request of the Town (within the statewide allocation of 10 assessments paid for by RIDEM).

Assuming the Town opts to request an assessment, the coalition would work to identify the most critical area of Town for this study. Once selected, the scientist will analyze the soil, vegetation, and topography. This assessment will help Barrington prioritize land preservation and engineering strategies to give the Town’s marshes a clear, unobstructed path to migrate inland.

For additional information, contact the Planning, Building, and Resilience Department at 401-247-1900, ext. 4.

- Contributed by Herbert A. Durfee III, Director of Planning, Building, Resilience, and Spencer Trust Administrator for the Town of Barrington

(Photo courtesy of Town of Barrington)

Welcome Lori Coleman to the Barrington Fire Department

Lori Coleman has joined the Barrington Fire Department staff as of June 8, 2026, as the NEW Administrative Assistant to Barrington Fire Chief Gerald Bessette. She plays a key role in supporting the Chief with all Fire Department administrative and departmental operations, as well as financial operations, including payroll.

Lori holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and Marketing from Providence College and brings over 20 years of experience supporting operations, managing financial processes, and maintaining accurate recordkeeping. Lori and her family have lived in Barrington for over 30 years. In her free time, she enjoys walking, knitting, and sailing.

- Contributed by Kathleen Taraian, Director of Human Resources

for the Town of Barrington

(Photo courtesy of Town of Barrington)

Help Barrington Firefighters Make a Difference and “Fill the Boot” to benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association

On Saturday, September 5th, members of Barrington Firefighters Local 1774 will hold their Annual Fill the Boot Campaign to benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA).

Throughout the day, firefighters will collect donations near the County Road intersection to Barrington Shopping Center, carrying on a tradition that has connected the community to this cause for decades. The event is part of a national campaign led by the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), which has partnered with MDA since 1954 to raise millions of dollars nationwide.

Barrington’s strong showing demonstrates once again the community’s commitment to supporting families in need and the dedication of its firefighters to making a difference beyond emergency response.

- Contributed by Town of Barrington

Town of Barrington Offices Closed for Labor Day

Please plan ahead, Town of Barrington offices – Barrington Public Library (Also closed Sunday, September 6th for summer hours), Department of Public Works, The Peck Center, Recycling Center, School Department, and Town Hall – will be closed on Monday, September 7th, in observance of Labor Day. Regular business hours will resume on Tuesday, September 8th.

Refuse and recycling collection will be delayed by one day for the week and will occur through Saturday, September 12th. See the 2026 Refuse and Recycling Schedule.

Residents can access many Town services online at barrington.ri.gov during the closure. For emergencies, please call 911. Thank you for your patience.

- Contributed by Town of Barrington

(Photo courtesy of Barrington Land Conservation Trust)

Find Inspiration Outdoors at Land Trust’s Free Plein Air Art Event

The Barrington Land Conservation Trust (BLCT) invites artists, writers, photographers, musicians, and nature enthusiasts of all skill levels to experience the beauty of Johannis Farm Wildlife Preserve at a free Visual & Literary Plein Air event on Saturday, August 22nd.

Participants are welcome to arrive anytime between 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m., with the event concluding at 2:00 p.m. Set against the backdrop of the preserve’s 32 acres of fields, forest, and coastline, the event encourages creativity in all forms from painting, sketching, and photography to poetry, journaling, songwriting, and more. Beginners are encouraged to participate.

Attendees should dress for the weather and bring whatever materials they need to create, such as sketchbooks, paints, journals, cameras, or other artistic tools, along with water and a snack. To help reduce exposure to ticks and mosquitoes, long pants, sturdy shoes, and a hat are recommended.

The event is free, but advance registration is required. A responsible adult must accompany children under age 14. Johannis Farm Wildlife Preserve is located on Sowams Road, with the entrance between 461 and 475 Sowams Road. Please note that dogs are not permitted on the preserve.

If weather requires a postponement, registered participants will be notified of the rescheduled date.

To register or learn more, visit www.blct.org/events.

- Contributed by Cindy Elder, Executive Director

for Barrington Land Conservation Trust

(Photo courtesy of Town of Barrington)

Washington Trust Sponsoring a Second Community Shredding Event in Barrington

Washington Trust is sponsoring a FREE community shredding event at Barrington Public Library on Saturday, September 19th at 10:00 a.m. to noon. This will be a drive-thru event located in The Peck Center parking lot behind the Library.

Washington Trust volunteers will be on site to remove any boxes or bags of documents from cars and load them into the shredder. Maximum of two boxes per person. Please bring donations of period and/or hygiene products to donate to Amenity Aid to help in their mission to end hygiene insecurity in Rhode Island

- Contributed by Barrington Public Library

(Photo courtesy of Black Earth Compost)

Join Barrington’s Composting Program, with Curbside Discounts, and Keep Food Waste Out of Our Landfill

Rhode Island's Central Landfill in Johnston, the state’s only landfill, takes in about 722 tons of food waste every day, accounting for nearly 19% of everything buried there. At current rates, it’s projected to reach capacity by 2034. Every scrap composted instead of landfilled helps stretch that timeline.

If you’re in Bristol, Barrington, or Newport, curbside composting is already happening. 359 people have signed up in Barrington, and we’re counting on the community to help reach a targeted 500 signups if not more.

No compost pile, no hassle — just set it out and go. And we’ve been hearing directly from our composters already in the program: they’re loving it.

Learn more and enroll today at https://blackearthcompost.com/barrington/

Sign up by Sunday, August 30th to lock in discounted service: two full years.

• Free Bin Starter Kit
• First Year - $66.66 (66% off)
• Second Year - $133.33 (33% off)

Sign up after Sunday, August 30th, and you'll still get the rate — just for one year instead of two at $66.66 (66% off). So don’t wait!

Current participants receive one free cu. ft. bag of compost or they can donate to the Barrington Garden Club by designating in their online account.

- Contributed by Eastern Rhode Island Conservation District

(Image courtesy of Rhode Island Department of Health)

RIDOH Confirms Rare Tick-Borne Powassan Virus Case; Residents Urged to Take Precautions

The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) has confirmed a rare case of Powassan virus in a Newport County resident. Powassan is a serious tick-borne illness that, while uncommon, can cause severe neurological complications. This marks Rhode Island’s second confirmed case in 2026 and the 10th case reported in the state since 2016.

Although Powassan remains rare, tick-borne illnesses, including Lyme disease, continue to be a concern throughout Rhode Island. There is no vaccine or specific treatment for Powassan, making tick bite prevention the best defense.

RIDOH encourages everyone spending time outdoors to remember three simple steps:

• Repel – Use an EPA-approved insect repellent containing DEET, wear long sleeves and pants, and stay on cleared trails when possible.
• Check – Inspect yourself, children, and pets for ticks after spending time outdoors, paying close attention to hidden areas such as behind the knees, around the waist, and in the hair.
• Remove – Promptly remove attached ticks with fine-tipped tweezers by grasping the tick close to the skin and pulling straight out.

Early symptoms of Powassan may include fever, headache, vomiting, and weakness. Anyone experiencing symptoms after a tick bite should contact their healthcare provider.

For more information about Powassan, Lyme disease, and tick prevention, visit the Rhode Island Department of Health’s tick safety webpage: https://health.ri.gov/tick-borne-diseases

- Contributed by Rhode Island Department of Health

(Photos courtesy of Town of Barrington)

Ribbon-Cutting Event Celebrates Reopening of Historic Bay Spring Community Center

A building that has served generations of Barrington residents began its next chapter on Monday, August 17th, as Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee, Town officials, and community members gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the reopening of the Bay Spring Community Center (BSCC) at 170 Narragansett Avenue.

Built in 1910 as the home of the Bay Spring Volunteer Fire Company, the building quickly became more than a firehouse. Its second floor hosted dances, dinners, and theatrical productions during the 1920s and 1930s, and following the Hurricane of 1938, the building served as a Red Cross relief station. When the fire station closed in 1968, the Town retained the property for community use, and this tradition continues in a substantially renewed space.

Construction began in February 2024 with nearly $1.7M in state investment. The former garage bays are converted into usable community space with a rear addition, an ADA-compliant ramp, and extensive improvements to the building's plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and lighting systems. The expanded 2,367-square-foot center now includes a multipurpose room and workstations designed to accommodate a variety of programs and activities.

The renovation is about more than the building itself. The reopened center is one of 21 Community Centers opening across Rhode Island.

Plans include workforce training and employment resources, educational programming in partnership with the Barrington Public School System, and health monitoring and wellness initiatives in collaboration with the East Bay Community Action Program and other community partners. The Friends of the Bay Spring Community Center will also continue its longstanding role, offering educational, cultural, artistic, and social programs that bring the community together.

As programming grows, volunteers will be an important part of the center's future. Residents interested in volunteering—or with an idea for a class, event, or community program—are encouraged to get involved.

Learn more about the center, upcoming programming, and volunteer opportunities through the Town of Barrington’s Bay Spring Community Center webpage at https://www.barrington.ri.gov/523/Bay-Spring-Community-Center.

- Contributed by Janine Vlassakis, Bay Spring Community Center Program Director for the Town of Barrington

Monday, August 17th thru Friday, August 21st – Metal Collection Week. Call the Department of Public Works (DPW) to schedule pickup, 247-1907.

Saturday, August 22nd – Art in Nature: Visual & Literary Plein Air, Johannis Farm Wildlife Preserve, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Sponsored by the Barrington Land Conservation Trust (BLCT). Free event and registration is required.

Wednesday, August 26th – First Day of School

Friday, August 28th – BPAC Monthly Bike Rides to Food Truck Friday with Rhody Food Trucks. The bike ride begins at 5:30 p.m. at South Lake Drive on East Bay Bike Path to Haines Park and ending at Police Cove Park. See the MAP for route and directions. Join the Bicycle-Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC) for this event. Rhody Food Trucks event is 4:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Sunday, August 30th – Music Bingo 4 a Cause, Barrington Town Hall Grounds, 1:00 to 6:00 p.m. Bingo rounds, live animals & pony rides, face painting, food & drink, and games. Sponsored by ALS Rhode Island (ALS RI) and organized by Marcus Paiva. Learn more and purchase tickets/donate to benefit ALS RI: https://alsunitedri.rallybound.org/music-bingo-4-a-cause/Donate/Tickets.

Sunday, August 30th – The Chamber Orchestra of Barrington at St. John’s Performance (2026-2027 season), St. John's Episcopal Church (191 County Road), Time: 3:00 p.m.

Wednesday, September 2nd – Rhode Island League of Women Voters/Primary Debate for General Assembly 67 (2 candidates), Barrington Public Library (Salem Family Auditorium, 2nd Floor), Meet & Greet at 5:30 p.m., Debate starts at 6:00 p.m.

Saturday, September 5th – Barrington Firefighters Local 1774 Annual “Fill the Boot” Campaign to benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA). Barrington Shopping Center, 8:00 a.m. to noon. Rain date is Saturday, September 12th, 8:00 a.m. to noon.

Sunday, September 6th - Blood Drive, Barrington Congregational Church (461 County Road), 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Donations by appointment, use sponsor code 1562 (Walk-ins will be welcomed if availability permits at time of arrival).

Monday, September 7th – Labor Day Holiday, Refuse and recycling normal collection day is moved to the next day for the week (Monday to Saturday, September 7th to 12th). See collection schedule.

Tuesday, September 8th – Barrington Beach Closes for the Season.

Wednesday, September 9th - Blood Drive, Barrington Public Library (281 County Road), 2:00 to 7:00 p.m. Donations by appointment, use sponsor code 2512 (Walk-ins will be welcomed if availability permits at time of arrival).

Wednesday, September 9th – Rhode Island in the Revolutionary War with Christian McBurney, Barrington Public Library (Salem Family Auditorium, 2nd Floor) at 6:30 p.m. Join the Barrington Preservation Society. Free and open to all. Registration requested by not required.

Wednesday, September 9th – Party Primary Election, polls open 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Town Clerk’s Office is closed to all business other than Board of Canvassers.

Friday, September 11th – Patriot Day

Saturday, September 12th – Rhode Island King Tide, 9:14 a.m., 0.8’

Saturday, September 12th – Rosh Hashanah

Sunday, September 13th – Gather, Barrington, Tillinghast Farm - RISD (231 Nayatt Road, Barrington), 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. An evening of community, local food, much, and giving back. Sponsored by Live. Love. Barrington and a portion of sales donated to TapIn.

Monday, September 14th – Brush Chipping Begins

Thursday, September 17th – Adult String Instrument Workshop with Community Strings Project, Barrington Public Library (Collis Family Gallery, 2nd Floor), 6:30 p.m., Adults are invited to join members of the String Orchestra and Guitar Ensemble for a brief concert followed by a meet-and-greet with the musicians and their instruments. Free and open to adults.

Friday, September 18th – BPAC Monthly Bike Rides to Food Truck Friday with Rhody Food Trucks. The bike ride begins at 5:30 p.m. at South Lake Drive on East Bay Bike Path to Haines Park and ending at Police Cove Park. See the MAP for route and directions. Join the Bicycle-Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC) for this event. Rhody Food Trucks event is 4:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Saturday, September 19th – Washington Trust FREE Shred Day, Barrington Public Library (Peck Center parking lot behind the Library), 10:00 a.m. to noon. Two boxes maximum per person. Please Note: Separate event from Department of Public Works (DPW) Community Shred on Saturday, October 17th.

Saturday and Sunday, September 19th & 20th – Family Beach Campout, Join neighbors at the community campout at Barrington Beach. See registration, schedule of events, and rules.

SAVE THE DATES:

Sunday, September 20th at 1:00 p.m. & Wednesday, September 23rd at 6:30 p.m. – Film Documentary and Discussion: “American Fiction,” Barrington Public Library (Salem Family Auditorium, 2nd Floor). Join the Town of Barrington’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Committee. Free and registration is recommended, but not required.

Sunday, September 27th – Barrington Arts Festival with Music Provided by the 250th Committee Sponsors, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Town Hall Grounds. Featuring the New Providence Big Band, Just Cuz with Roger Ceresi, and Pat McGee.

Monday, September 28th – Rhode Island League of Women Voters/General Election Debate for Town Council (4 candidates) and General Assembly 67 (2 candidates), Barrington Public Library (Salem Family Auditorium, 2nd Floor) at 5:30 p.m.

SEE ALSO:

The Barrington Town Council is looking for volunteers to serve on:

• Bicycle-Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC):  2 vacancies: 2 alternates
• Board of Assessment Review:  1 vacancy: 1st alternate
• Bristol County Water Authority: 1 vacancy: 1 full member
• Cemetery Commission: 1 vacancy: 1 full member
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee: 2 vacancies: 2nd alternate and 1 student representative to serve a term of June 1, 2026, through May 31, 2027 (non-voting member)
• Housing Board of Trustees: 3 vacancies: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd alternates
• Juvenile Hearing Board: 1 vacancy: alternate
• Library Board of Trustees: 1 vacancy, 1 full member
• Open Space Committee: 1 vacancy, 1st alternate
• Parks and Recreation Commission: 1 vacancy: 1 student representative to serve a term of June 1, 2026, through May 31, 2027 (non-voting member)
• Resilience and Energy Committee:  2 vacancies: 1 full member and 1st alternate
• Veterans Advisory Committee: 2 vacancies: 2 alternates (5 members to be veterans, can include family members of veterans)
• Zoning Board of Review: 1 vacancy: 3rd alternate

Updated Monday, August 19, 2026

To apply, go to the Boards and Commission webpage.

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All newsletters are emailed on Tuesdays unless noted otherwise (*Emailed next day due to holiday.) Do you have something you would like to see shared in the newsletter? Please send to info@barrington.ri.gov.  

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