Updating Independence Park

By Gigi Graves, Sheridan Hall, Mariah Frazier, Sophia Bruno

Exciting improvements are coming to Independence Park, a popular downtown Bristol waterfront destination. The impacts of climate change and decades of use and wear have taken their toll on this waterfront park. So two major projects, the Boat Ramp Improvement Project and the parking lot renovations, are now underway to rejuvenate and enhance this valuable public space. 

The project consists of a complete replacement of the boat ramp, which was originally built in 1990, and a renovation of the pier, floating dock, and parking lot. The upgrades will improve safety, access to Bristol Harbor, and contribute to long-term shoreline resilience. Maybe the most unique aspect of the plan is the inclusion of stormwater retention basins to help reduce erosion and improve water quality in Bristol harbor. The reconstruction of the parking lot in Independence Park is also an important project. 

The changes are currently in the works, which you can observe from the construction in the parking lot when you drive by. The main purpose of the construction is adding sediment areas and stormwater retention bins. These will filter water into the ground and prevent it from washing back into the harbor. This is especially important to the harbor since it will vastly improve the water quality. Additionally, this will combat erosion in the parking lot in the long term. The stormwater retention bins will prevent flooding that is making the parking lots erode faster and prevent accessibility in certain areas. The work will extend to the end of the East Bay Bike Path. This will make the park area safer as well as more aesthetically pleasing. Ultimately, this project aims to improve both the health of the nature that makes Bristol’s very own Independence Park beautiful as well as making it a more appealing place for residents to spend their time or use to access the water.

The boat ramp sits in Bristol Harbor and is one of the main initiatives of the Independence Park project. As one of the many beautiful sites in Bristol, improving this ramp improves many things. Built in 1990, the dock sits at 47 feet wide and 84 feet long. With two minor reconstruction periods in 2007 and 2008, the ramp needs to be revamped into a stronger structure. With climate change and changing tides, our coastal facilities need to be more prepared. The new boat ramp is proposed to be slightly north of the existing ramp and in deeper waters. By providing Bristol residents with a better ramp to put their boats in the water, and enjoy a sunny summer on the beautiful water.

With a boat ramp, pier, floating dock, parking lot, and pedestrian walkways, Independence Park is a great day getaway for some good views and great vibes! But, due to many climate impacts and significant weather events, the park elements have deteriorated over time. The improvement projects that will help restore Independence Park to what it once was and make the park more resilient to future wear and tear.