History Bytes: WPA Construction Projects

April 17, 2013
Bronze WPA plaque from Point area sidewalk.

Bronze WPA plaque from Point area sidewalk.

As part of the New Deal, the United States government established the WPA (Works Progress/ Projects Administration) to address unemployment during the Great Depression. From 1935-1943, approximately 8 million jobs were created, mostly local civic improvement construction projects such as road and sidewalk paving, wall building and shoreline erosion control. Locally the WPA built sidewalks and most of the stone walls, grandstands, concession buildings and other facilities in Newport’s public parks. Vernon Park, Freebody Park and Cardines Field are the most visible examples.

WPA playground slide, complete with fireplace and chimney, at Vernon Park.

WPA playground slide, complete with fireplace and chimney, at Vernon Park.