Smith Hill, Providence

Smith Hill, Providence is a historic neighborhood located in Providence, Rhode Island, near Brown University, Rhode Island College, and Providence College. The neighborhood is situated on a hill overlooking the Woonasquatucket River and is home to many historic buildings, including the Rhode Island State House and the Providence City Hall. Smith Hill is also close to the Downtown Providence area, which features a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, such as the Providence Place Mall and the PPAC. The neighborhood is accessible via Interstate 95 and is near the Providence Station.

Geography

The geography of Smith Hill is characterized by its hilly terrain, with many streets featuring steep inclines and scenic views of the surrounding city. The neighborhood is bounded by the Woonasquatucket River to the west, Atwells Avenue to the north, and Chalkstone Avenue to the east. Smith Hill is also near the Seekonk River and the Providence River, which offer opportunities for kayaking and other water sports. The neighborhood's geography is similar to that of other Providence neighborhoods, such as College Hill and Federal Hill, which are also known for their historic architecture and scenic views. Nearby parks, such as Waterplace Park and Riverwalk Park, provide green spaces for residents and visitors to enjoy, and are maintained by the Providence Parks Department and the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management.

History

The history of Smith Hill dates back to the 18th century, when the area was primarily used for farming and trade. The neighborhood was named after John Smith (pioneer), a colonial settler who owned a large portion of the land. During the American Revolution, Smith Hill was a key location for the Continental Army, with many soldiers stationed in the area. The neighborhood also played a significant role in the Industrial Revolution, with the construction of the Providence and Worcester Railroad and the Woonasquatucket River canal. Many historic buildings in Smith Hill, such as the Old State House and the Providence Athenaeum, were built during this time period and feature Federal architecture and Greek Revival architecture. The neighborhood is also home to the Rhode Island Historical Society, which provides information and resources about the state's history, including the American Civil War and the Gilded Age.

Demographics

The demographics of Smith Hill are diverse, with a mix of young professionals, families, and long-time residents. The neighborhood is home to many students from nearby Brown University, Rhode Island College, and Providence College, as well as employees of the Rhode Island General Assembly and the City of Providence. According to data from the United States Census Bureau, the population of Smith Hill is approximately 10,000 people, with a median age of 32 and a median household income of $50,000. The neighborhood is also home to many community organizations, such as the Smith Hill Community Association and the Providence Neighborhood Alliance, which work to promote community development and provide resources for residents. Nearby institutions, such as the Butler Hospital and the Rhode Island Hospital, provide healthcare services to the community, and are affiliated with the Warren Alpert Medical School and the Brown University School of Public Health.

Economy

The economy of Smith Hill is driven by a mix of industries, including healthcare, education, and government. The neighborhood is home to many hospitals and medical facilities, such as the Rhode Island Hospital and the Butler Hospital, which employ thousands of people. The education sector is also a significant contributor to the local economy, with many schools and universities located in the area, including Brown University and Rhode Island College. The Rhode Island General Assembly and the City of Providence also have a significant presence in the neighborhood, with many government offices and buildings located in the area. Additionally, the neighborhood is home to many small businesses and startups, including restaurants, shops, and tech companies, which are supported by organizations such as the Providence Chamber of Commerce and the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation. The Providence Journal and the Rhode Island Monthly provide local news and information, and are headquartered in the nearby Downtown Providence area.

Transportation

The transportation options in Smith Hill are varied, with many ways to get around the neighborhood and the surrounding city. The neighborhood is accessible via Interstate 95 and is near the Providence Station, which provides Amtrak service to Boston and New York City. The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) also operates several bus routes through the neighborhood, including the R-Line and the 54-line. Additionally, the neighborhood is bike-friendly, with many bike lanes and bike-share programs available, including the JUMP Bikes and the Zipcar systems. The T.F. Green Airport is also nearby, providing air travel options to destinations around the world, and is served by airlines such as American Airlines and Delta Air Lines. The Providence Port and the Davisville Port are also nearby, providing shipping and cargo services, and are operated by the Rhode Island Ports Corporation.

Landmarks

The landmarks in Smith Hill are numerous, with many historic buildings and scenic views. The Rhode Island State House is a prominent landmark in the neighborhood, with its distinctive dome and cupola. The Providence City Hall is also located in the neighborhood, as well as the Old State House and the Providence Athenaeum. The neighborhood is also home to many parks and green spaces, including Waterplace Park and Riverwalk Park, which offer scenic views of the surrounding city and the Woonasquatucket River. The First Baptist Church in America and the St. John's Episcopal Church are also located in the neighborhood, and feature historic architecture and stunning stained glass windows. Nearby attractions, such as the Providence Place Mall and the PPAC, provide entertainment and shopping options, and are within walking distance of the neighborhood. The Rhode Island School of Design and the Museum of Art are also nearby, and feature exhibits and collections of art and design, including works by Pablo Picasso and Claude Monet. Category:Neighborhoods in Providence, Rhode Island