📍 Location & Geography
Riverside is a suburban neighborhood located in the city of East Providence in the state of Rhode Island, United States. It is situated in the southeastern part of the state, bordering the Providence River to the west. Its geographical features include the Bullock’s Cove, a small body of water that opens into the Providence River.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for Riverside are approximately 41.7748° N latitude and 71.3701° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Riverside is in Providence County, the most populous county in Rhode Island. It is part of the Providence metropolitan area, which also includes cities in southern Massachusetts. The neighborhood covers a total area of approximately 3.9 square miles.
👥 Population & Demographics
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Riverside has a population of approximately 18,000 residents. The population density is about 4,615 per square mile. The demographic makeup is diverse, with a mix of different ethnicities and age groups. The median age in Riverside is 43 years.
🏛️ History
Riverside was originally a farming community until the late 19th century when it began to develop into a suburban residential area. It was once home to several amusement parks, including the famous Crescent Park, which was a popular destination for locals and tourists alike in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Today, Riverside maintains its suburban charm while also offering a variety of amenities and attractions.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Riverside is known for its scenic beauty and natural environment. It boasts several parks and recreational areas, including the East Bay Bike Path, a 14.5-mile trail that offers stunning views of the Providence River and Narragansett Bay. The Sabin Point Park is another popular spot, featuring a beach, playground, and picnic area.
🏫 Education
Riverside is served by the East Providence School District. It has several public schools, including Riverside Middle School and East Providence High School. The neighborhood is also home to St. Brendan School, a private Catholic school.
🚧 Transportation
Riverside is well connected by road, with Interstate 195 running just north of the neighborhood. Public transportation is provided by the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA), with several bus routes serving the area. The closest airport is T.F. Green Airport, located about 10 miles to the southwest in Warwick.
📜 Trivia & Events
Riverside is home to the historic Looff Carousel, a nationally recognized landmark that was built in 1895. The carousel is one of the few remaining works of Charles I.D. Looff, a master carousel designer. It is still operational and is a popular attraction for both locals and visitors.
Riverside also hosts several community events throughout the year, including the annual East Providence Heritage Days Festival, a summer event that features live music, food vendors, and a fireworks display.