East Providence Planning Director To Retire After 30 Years

EAST PROVIDENCE, RI — Diane Feather, the acting director for the East Providence Planning Department, is retiring after 30 years, city officials announced last week. Feather has been acting planning director since 2017 and chief planner since 1990, according to city officials.

"It has been my privilege to serve the city and citizens of East Providence for over 29 years in the Planning Department," said Feather. "I think the knowledgeable, hard-working professional staff of planners in the department, as well as many colleagues in departments of the city who have been part of working for the future of the city."

Feather said she now looks forward to spending more time in her longtime home in Riverside.

According to Mayor Roberto DaSilva said Feather has been a "huge advocate for the city," having been instrumental in overseeing planning of numerous East Providence projects. This included the rehabilitation of the Rumford Chemical mill, "now a vibrant, mixed-use development," said DaSilva. He said Feather also oversaw planning for many recreation projects, such as a reflection garden and splash pad park.

"We wish Diane a happy and healthy retirement," said DaSilva.

During her time with East Providence, Feather helped bring $850,000 in Volkswagen settlement money to the city for implementation of a storm water management plan for Sabin Point Park, city officials say.

Feather is a member of hte American Planning Association and the American Institute of Certified Planners. She also served as president of the Rhode Island Chapter of the American Planning Association from 2006 to 2010.

When not in City Hall, Feather can be found volunteering with several organizations, including the East Providence Waterfront Special Development District Commission and the Design Review Subcommittee of the Waterfront Commission.