Get to Know Us
Going Strong Since 1983
The WBNA is a Rhode Island non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that is governed by an all-volunteer, neighborhood-based board of directors with three part-time staff. We strive to reflect the demographics and diversity of our neighborhood within the makeup of the organization.
Our focus area roughly extends north to Broadway, south to Cranston Street and Union Avenue, west to the service road at the Route 6/10 connector and east to the service road at I-95.
our mission
We are a diverse and dynamic community
Our work is a combination of programs and events, advocacy, collaboration, and neighbor-driven projects. We foster a neighborhood that embraces, empowers, and connects all in the community.
our Vision
We are strongest when we are connected to our neighbors
WBNA envisions a future where everyone connected to the neighborhood feels included and supported in living, working, learning, and playing.
Core Values
WBNA is open and inclusive to all.
- We believe in the values of differences in opinions and experiences.
- We believe in the power of collective representation to develop creative solutions.
- We believe that fun, joyful celebrations help create a caring, connected, and strong neighborhood.
- We believe that pathways to civic engagement should be available to all.
Our LEGACY
This timeline represents the significant milestones, achievements, and activities of the West Broadway Neighborhood Association (WBNA) from its inception in 1983 to the present day.
2004
WBNA buys 1577 Westminster St. and holds a design competition. The winning design is from Kite Architects and becomes the home of Fertile Underground.
The Broadway Armory local historic district is expanded.
2003
WBNA is awarded a $350,000 Transportation Enhancement Grant for Luongo Square.
Renovations at 1192 Westminster St. are completed; the “Design House” is unveiled at a party and art auction featuring rooms and art designed by neighbors and other local creatives.
2002
Two hundred neighbors, the WBNA, Providence Revolving Fund, West Elmwood Housing, and the Planning Department create a West Side Action Plan and a second bond issue.
2001
1192 Westminster Street purchased with the help of the Providence Revolving Fund.
2000
Renovated the building at 1390 Westminster St. and sells the property to a homeowner, the first floor is rented to Community Music Works.
University of Rhode Island Grad School conducts a revitalization study for Cranston Street.
$5,000 is donated by a neighbor for the playground at Dexter Park; WBNA leverages another $75,000 from the Champlain Foundation for upgrades.
1999
Awarded the largest Transportation Enhancement Grant of $785,000 through a bond issue spearheaded by Mayor Cianci and Representative John Lombardi.
Leveraged $2.2 million for decorative lighting and street work for Westminster St.
1997
The Rhode Island National Guard vacates the Cranston St. Armory. WBNA and Providence Preservation Society nominate the Armory to the National Trust for Historic Preservation America's 11 Most Endangered Places. The very first fundraising effort, Armory Bash, was held.
1996
WBNA purchases 1560 Westminster St. with the help of the Providence Revolving Fund, and holds a grand opening
1995
Awarded the first transportation grant for Westminster St. in the amount of $200,000.
1994
John McNiff is hired as the first full-time Executive Director.
1993
WBNA becomes a 501C3 organization.
1992
University of Rhode Island Grad School conducts the Westminster St. Revitalization Study for WBNA.
1990
WBHA changes name to West Broadway Neighborhood Association (WBNA); Rebecca and Ken Phillips begin working to organize and professionalize WBNA.
2023
West Broadway Homeowners Association (WBHA) files articles for incorporation.
1983
Neighbors gather on Chapin Ave to initiate a homeowner organization for the Armory District.
Our Projects
Leading By Example
The WBNA has been, and continues to be, a leader in the preservation of historic architecture in the neighborhood while creating programs to benefit all who live here.
Team
Awards
Each year at our Annual Meeting in January, WBNA recognizes individuals, organizations and businesses for outstanding service to our community and neighborhood, and for initiatives and projects that support the mission of the WBNA.
