Pawtucket plans New Veterans Park Pool with Splash Pad, Pavilion, more – and 2 New Parks

City of Pawtucket Announces Major Investments in Parks and Recreation – Projects will enhance neighborhood parks, expand recreation opportunities, and improve public spaces across the city

The City of Pawtucket is beginning three major recreation projects to “modernize public spaces, improve accessibility, and create new opportunities for residents and families”, as recently announced.

The projects:

John Street Park

Expected Completion: Late Summer/Early Fall 2026

Transforming John Street Park into a modern neighborhood destination featuring a new playground, splash pad, improved basketball courts, shaded gathering areas, walking paths, and extensive landscaping, including more than 80 new trees.

Project Funding: approximately $2.3 million funded through a City Recreation Bond, Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), RIDEM Open Space Grant, LISC, and a U.S. Forestry Grant.

Project Partners: Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), Rhode Island Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS), Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH), Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RIDEM), the City of Pawtucket Planning Department, the Department of Public Works, landscape architect Tim Gerrish, and Johnson Landscaping, Inc.

Veterans Park Pool

Construction Begins: Fall 2026
Expected Completion: Spring 2028

Following the 2026 summer season, Veterans Park Pool will undergo a complete reconstruction. The new facility will include a new pool, splash pad, bathhouse, pavilion, parking improvements, and other amenities.

Estimated Project Cost: $6–8 million, funded through congressional appropriations, RIDEM Open Space Grant, and a City Recreation Bond.

Oak Hill Park

Construction Begins: Fall 2026
Expected Completion: Spring/Summer 2027

The Oak Hill Park project will renovate the existing tennis courts, add pickleball courts, and construct a new playground designed for toddlers, while preserving the existing basketball court.

Estimated Project Cost: $600,000–$700,000, funded through a City Recreation Bond and Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)

“Investing in parks is an investment in greenspaces, community, and our future,” said Mayor Donald R. Grebien. “These improvements will provide safe, welcoming spaces where residents of all ages can gather, stay active, and enjoy everything our city has to offer. Thanks to strong partnerships at the local, state, and federal levels, we’re creating modern recreational spaces that will serve Pawtucket residents for generations.”