July 2025 Update On The Block Island Sound Bicycle Pathway Committee

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Faith LaBossiere, the author of this post, is Chair of the Block Island Sound Bicycle Pathway Committee and has been an advocate of safe bicycle travel in Charlestown for decades.

For those who are unfamiliar with the Charlestown’s Block Island Sound Bicycle Pathway Committee, we are a subcommittee of the Parks and Recreation Commission, and our seven members meet monthly at 4:00 pm on the third Thursday of the month at Charlestown Town Hall.

The Commission and the Bicycle Pathway Committee have been tasked with promoting the development and use of trails, linear greenways, and bikeways, and with investigating, initiating, and endorsing efforts at both the local and state levels to create and expand designated walking routes and non-motorized paths throughout the community.

Rhode Island has 60 miles of paved bike trails of which there is only about a mile in Misquamicut that is in the shoreline area. Our committee works with the RI Department of Transportation (RIDOT) for improved safety and expanded access in Charlestown and beyond. Our recent projects:

  • Recommended language for mobile seasonal signs and crosswalks for Charlestown Beach Road that will be in place shortly.
  • Worked to have signage for 2025 and pavement markings for 2026 for Old Post Rd (a state road) from the South Kingstown town line to Ninigret Park. We are also working with Charlestown’s Public Works Director for signage and markings for Matunuck Schoolhouse Road (a town road).
  • Working with RIDOT, RI Statewide Planning, and State Senator Victoria Gu to develop a safe passage for pedestrians and bicyclists at the intersection of Rt. 1 and Rt. 1A at King Tom Pond.
  • Submitted projects for placement on the state’s Long Range Transportation Plan 2050:
    • Update of the Statewide Bike Map (with local input):
    • King Tom Pond Intersection Bypass Trail (see above)
    • Non-vehicular crossing of Rt.1 at Cross Mills and Rt. 2.
  • Unanimously supported State Senator Victoria Gu’s Resolution to raise the platform at the Westerly Train Station that would provide for ease of access for all (and cyclists too).
  • Participate in the 2nd Biannual Community Bike Ride (May and October) in conjunction with South Kingstown’s Pedestrian and Cycle Advisory Committee.
  • Planning a bicycle ride of historic Old Post Road with the 250th Celebration Committee.

Like to ride? Like to help? If so, call Faith at 401-364-6400. We also can add you to the list of “Friends” who receive the committee agenda each month.