Scenic Aquidneck Coalition Celebrates Completion of Burying Utilities Along Middletown's Third Beach

Scenic Aquidneck Coalition Celebrates Completion of Burying Utilities Along Middletown's Third Beach

The Scenic Aquidneck Coalition has announced the completion of a project to bury power and communication lines along Third Beach Road and Indian Avenue in Middletown, Rhode Island. 

Inspired by the 2017 Second Beach project, the Scenic Third Beach Project removes the rest of the poles on Sachuest Point along Third Beach and up Indian Avenue, promoting "coastal resiliency, restoring the historic landscape and enhancing the area’s scenic appeal."

“Nearly 100 people contributed gifts, large and small, as this effort was entirely supported by private charitable contributions.  Restoring the historic landscape of the Paradise Valley, one of Rhode Island’s most special places, is a legacy project appreciated now and for generations to come," said Valerie Talmage, Executive Director of Preserve Rhode Island.

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The project area, located in Middletown’s south coast, has been known as “Paradise Valley” since the 18th century. The region is nationally recognized for its history, beauty and wildlife. 77 utility poles and associated wires were removed along the 1.2-mile stretch of roadway in this most recent phase.   

The Scenic Third Beach Project is facilitated by the Scenic Aquidneck Coalition, a collaboration of nonprofit partners working on projects that enhance and preserve the visual quality of Aquidneck Island’s natural and cultural resources. 

About Coalition

The Coalition is led by Preserve Rhode Island, The Preservation Society of Newport County and the Aquidneck Land Trust. 

“The successful completion of this project is a testament to the power of collaboration between committed non-profits, private citizens, and local government. Protecting and beautifying our public open spaces benefits everyone and it’s a thrill to see the results of this joint effort," said Charles B. Allott, Esq., Executive Director of the Aquidneck Land Trust.

The full cost of the nearly $4 million project was funded through private donations raised from philanthropic individuals as well as a grant from the van Beuren Charitable  Foundation. 

“I can’t wait to see what’s next in store for the Scenic Aquidneck Coalition. The completion of this project proves that, with our common concerns for historic places and our fragile environment, we can accomplish goals that will have a positive impact for generations to come," said Trudy Coxe, CEO and Executive Director of The Preservation Society of Newport County."

Dwight Sipprelle, a resident of Middletown who spearheaded the project, and Hope “Happy” Van Beuren were recently honored for their contributions and were congratulated by U.S. Senator Jack Reed who helped obtain federal funding for 2017’s Second Beach project.