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Michael S Van Leesten Memorial Bridge

at James, Bridge St, Providence, RI 02903

partly cloudy (72°F)

Last Updated: 4:15pm

The Michael S. Van Leesten Memorial Bridge, located in Providence, Rhode Island, is a pedestrian bridge that spans the Providence River, connecting the east and west sides of the city. Originally built as part of the I-195 redevelopment project, the bridge was named in honor of Michael S. Van Leesten in recognition of his contributions to civil rights, economic development, and community leadership in Providence.

The bridge offers both functional and aesthetic value, providing a key pedestrian and cyclist connection between neighborhoods and serving as a public gathering space. The design of the bridge is modern, with sweeping curves and integrated lighting, making it a visually striking addition to the city’s waterfront. It plays a significant role in connecting various public spaces and has become a symbol of unity and progress in the city, reflecting Van Leesten's lifelong commitment to bridging divides within the community.

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#pvdpedestrianbridge

#Eveninng #Sunset #photography #providence #rhodeisland #pvdpedestrianbridge
Thank you to everyone who participated in the inaugural Red Scarves Across the River World AIDS Day even hosted by hello_apri. The red scarves along the bridge honored those who we’ve lost since the beginning of the AIDS epidemic, recognized people living with HIV, and helped raise awareness about HIV. Thank you to all of those who volunteered, knit scarves, and stopped by. We greatly appreciate your generosity. Also, thank you to our partner plantcitypvd who made delicious red velvet cookies for the occasion. And finally, thank you to all of my colleagues at APRI who deliver critical services to people living with and at risk for HIV every day. #redscarvesacrosstheriver #worldaidsday #pvdpedestrianbridge #pvd #redscarfproject #plantcityprovidence
Manchester street station
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#Sony #longexposure #longexposure_shots #architecture #night #providence #rhodeisland #manchesterstreetpowerstation #michaelvanleestenpedestrianbridge
Absolutely honored to meet dawnducky08 tonight!!!!

#providence #pvdpedestrianbridge #petstagram
🌻 PVD appreciation post 🌻
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What a stunning sunset in providence tonight! Can you believe this is unfiltered!?
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#russillorealestate #rhodeislandrealestate #rhodeislandrealtor #rhodeislandhome #rhodeisland #providence #providenceri #pvd #1000suns #michaelvanleestenpedestrianbridge #providencerhodeisland
Pedestrian Bridge, Providence RI 
Expertly modeled by m_piedmonte and Eric D’Agostino •
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#providence #rhodeisland #pvd #newengland #ri #brownuniversity #pawtucket #providencenightlife #providenceri #nightlife #usa #hookah  #eastprovidence #footbridge #pvdpedestrianbridge #photography #exploremore #travel
“Seen a ghost, it reminded me of someone I know...”
thelastduke anakin_therager
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#boston #followingboston #providence #music #massmusic #portrait #nightphotography #pvdpedestrianbridge #vans #night #photography #massachusetts
So fun watching my hubby yajnarom perform today! He joined theprovidencedrumtroupe in the park. 
Local friends: if you want to see more, the Providence Drum Troupe performs Thursdays at 6:30 pm at the #michaelvanleestenpedestrianbridge in downtown Providence 🙏
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#indianclubsofficial #indianclubs #positivevibrations #meditationinmotion #movementismedicine #hiyaj #collaboration

History

Taken in 1958 by Providence photographer Lawrence Tilley as part of the ongoing Historic American Buildings Survey, this photo documents the rare occasion of a parking lot becoming something better. Prior to becoming a parking lot, this area was filled with buildings, including the original location of Brown & Sharpe.

Historical context courtesy of @pvdnowandthen.

Map

Michael S Van Leesten Memorial Bridge is owned and managed by the City of Providence.

Fox Point Hurricane Barrier

Fox Point Hurricane Barrier

<p>The Fox Point Hurricane Barrier is a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers flood-protection landmark that shields about 280 acres of downtown from tidal surges and hurricanes. Completed in 1966, the 700-foot concrete structure spans the Providence River and features three large tainter gates, flanking earthen dikes, and a pumping station capable of discharging river floodwaters into Narragansett Bay. Built in response to devastating floods from the 1938 hurricane and Hurricane Carol in 1954, the barrier helps protect the city’s commercial district, infrastructure, and homes, with operations shared between the Corps and the City of Providence.</p>

La Gondola Providence, Inc.

La Gondola Providence, Inc.

<p>La Gondola Providence, Inc. offers private Venetian-style gondola rides along the Providence and Woonasquatucket rivers, featuring romantic outings, family-friendly trips, and customizable group tours. Guests can choose from trip packages that may include historical narration, live Italian music, and special event options such as weddings, reception cruises, and photo sessions. The company operates seasonally, weather permitting, and provides gift certificates for memorable experiences on the water.</p>

LUMUKU

LUMUKU

<p>LUMUKU is a creative studio and public art initiative focused on uplifting communities through vibrant illustration, large-scale design, and playful, educational games. Their work spans murals, exhibitions, and interactive experiences that encourage connection, learning, and joy, complemented by a shop featuring art and game products.</p>

Plant City

Plant City

<p>Plant City is a plant-based food hall and marketplace featuring multiple chef-driven restaurants, a coffee bar, and a retail market offering vegan groceries and goods. Open daily with extended weekend hours, it serves a wide range of cuisines and menus, including the SĒZN dinner experience on select evenings. The spacious, stylish venue hosts private events and community programming, and provides online ordering and reservations through its website. Suitable for vegans and non-vegans alike, it’s a destination for dining, shopping, and gatherings in Providence.</p>

Providence Kayak

Providence Kayak

<p>Providence Kayak offers single and tandem kayak rentals on the Providence and Woonasquatucket Rivers, letting paddlers explore Riverwalk, Waterplace Park, and scenic downtown waterways under historic bridges. Rentals start at 45 or 75 minutes, with staff assistance for easy launch and landing plus route and safety guidance. Seasonal operations also include a second location at Lincoln Woods State Park for freshwater paddling on Olney Pond. Booking and gift cards are available online.</p>

The Guild PVD Beer Garden

The Guild PVD Beer Garden

<p>Seasonal outdoor beer garden set along the Providence River in the 195 District Park, featuring The Guild’s craft beers and rotating guest pours, weekly food trucks, and occasional special events. Open May through October (weather permitting) with family-friendly, park-style seating and skyline views; check the website for current hours, on-tap lists, and event details.</p>

The Hot Club

The Hot Club

<p>Lively waterfront bar offering casual pub fare, cocktails, and a busy events calendar with karaoke, trivia, and weekend DJ sets. Open daily into late night, it features burgers and bar classics, online ordering, and a rewards program, with periodic specials like service-industry discounts on Sundays. Popular for group hangouts and harbor views, it blends a relaxed daytime scene with an upbeat nightlife atmosphere.</p>

Contact Information

Providence Parks Department

1000 Elmwood Avenue, Providence RI 02905
Roger Williams Boathouse
providenceri.gov
(401) 680-7201