Cliff Walk Restrooms May Be in Near Future

Hurricane Sandy repairs are not the only construction you may notice at the Cliff Walk this summer. In a vote of 6-1, with Councilor Kate Leonard opposed, Newport City Council accepted a RIDEM Recreational Trails Grant Award that will provide 80 percent of construction costs, up to $100,000 for new restroom facilities. 

Leonard expressed concern with the unknowns about operating and maintenance costs of the facilities.  

“My water bill is huge,” said Leonard. “I can’t imagine flushing toilets for everyone walking down Cliff Walk.”

The city applied for the grant to supplement a 2012 State Senate award that provided funds for the development and construction to replace the existing portable restrooms at Cliff Walk. Under the agreement, the cost to the city will not exceed $25,000.

Construction of the bathrooms is expected to begin this summer.