Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make a donation to the Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor, Inc?
Thank you for asking! The success of the Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor, Inc. is due, in large part, to public support and active participation by the people and communities of the Blackstone Valley.
When will a National Park be established in Blackstone Valley?
Aware of how important the history and resources of the Blackstone Valley are, Congress directed the National Park Service (NPS) to study the possibility of establishing a national park in the Blackstone Valley. The NPS completed this Special Resource Study and presented a preferred option, which has two components: (1) creation of a permanent, bi-state National Park, and (2) a partnership between the park and a strong, community-based, regional organization, which would support the park and continue partnership programs throughout the Corridor. Legislation to create the park has been introduced.
The areas proposed for inclusion in the new National Park are:
- Old Slater Mill National Historic District, Pawtucket, RI
- Blackstone River State Park, Lincoln, RI
- Slatersville Historic District, North Smithfield, RI
- Ashton Historic District, Cumberland, RI
- Whitinsville Historic District, Northbridge, MA
- Hopedale Village Historic District, Hopedale, MA
- The Blackstone River (and its Tributaries) and Canals
The Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor, Inc., is the non-profit organization that continues the role of coordinating and supporting partnerships throughout the Blackstone Valley, and is shepherding the new park legislation through Congress.
Where can I access the bike way (or bike path)?
The Blackstone River Greenway was conceived of as a 48-mile bikeway connecting Worcester, MA, to Providence, RI, the length of the National Heritage Corridor, to run, where possible, along the Blackstone River and/or Canal. Rhode Island access points and parking information.
Where can I access the Blackstone River?
You can download paddle tours, and take one of the suggested trips that are based on your skill level and preferences. You can also download a Google Earth file with information on parking for river access, portages, dams, rapids, and other river information.
How can I find out about the different events that are happening in the Blackstone Valley?
Visit our event calendar for listings, in both RI and MA. We send out an email events blast at the beginning of each month, highlighting the Valley’s key events for the month. Sign up for the email blast.
Do you have any information on walking tours?
We have several self-guided walking tour brochures in both MA and RI. Walking tour brochures are available as PDF files for printing on your home computer. Or, you can give us a call at The Depot and we would be glad to send to you.