Painting of Independence Trail's Green Stripe Begins in Providence

Inaugural tour of three-mile trail of history and culture is scheduled for July 30.

Mayor Angel Taveras, Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation Tourism Director Mark Brodeur, Independence Trail Education Foundation Executive Director Robert I. Burke and other officials joined today in front of the Rhode Island Convention Center to begin painting the green stripe that will mark the route of the Independence Trail.

In May, Mayor Taveras, Governor Lincoln Chafee and Mr. Burke signed a memorandum of agreement between the state, city and foundation establishing the Independence Trail. The three-mile trail will include about 75 historical sites in downtown Providence, and cover more than four centuries of Rhode Island history, culture, architecture and folklore - including the birthplace of religious freedom, the site of the first shot in the fight against England, the spot where Lincoln spoke, a house where George Washington slept, and a statue of General Ambrose Burnside - the Civil War General from Rhode Island whose famous facial hair coined the phrase "sideburns."

"Today we begin painting the green stripe that will mark the Independence Trail's path through Providence. Every day, visitors walk our streets without being aware they are passing sites that helped to define American history or have a charming local story to tell. This trail will change all that. We envision the Independence Trail becoming a national tourist destination similar to historic walking trails in Boston and Philadelphia," said Mayor Taveras.

The development of the trail will be overseen by the nonprofit Independence Trail Educational Foundation, which will manage, promote and maintain the trail. The official launch of the Independence Trail and an inaugural walking tour is scheduled for July 30.