About KeepSpace

Launched in the summer of 2007 by Rhode Island Housing, KeepSpace is a widely inclusive partnership initiative to change the way we think about, build and approach “community.” For KeepSpace to truly improve our community, especially when funds are limited, partners agree to come to the table in a spirit of collaboration. Understanding that we must think beyond our own spheres of interest – the bounds of our expertise, the charge of our employment, the borders of our neighborhoods – we consider multiple perspectives to create a healthy, prosperous, sustainable future. KeepSpace partners embrace the KeepSpace principles and philosophy. KeepSpace partners believe in listening to all concerns and ideas – whether they are from community members, businesses and local government, or those dedicated to improving the economy, infrastructure, environment and homes. As a result, KeepSpace has encouraged respectful interaction, cooperation and collaborative problem solving, often resulting in unique, integrated solutions to the challenges facing Rhode Island communities today.

Westerly was selected as one of the original four KeepSpace communities. The planning phase of the KeepSpace Westerly process kicked off in November 2010 and lasted for one year, culminating in a Community Design Plan, finalized in the autumn of 2011. We are now in the implementation phase, in which catalytic projects will be nurtured and funded, in accordance with the Community Design Plan, under the guidance of the KeepSpace Westerly Implementation Review Panel. The Westerly Land Trust is financial agent and custodian for KeepSpace Westerly.

The Six KeepSpace Principles are:

• A Good Home: Home provides the foundation upon which families can thrive, children can learn and grow, and communities can prosper. A good home is a safe, healthy, inviting place that is affordable to rent or own, especially to those who work close by. Good homes are the focal point of a thriving community.
• A Healthy Environment: Environment is what encompasses a community. Whether a neighborhood, region, country or globe, our environment must be protected and nurtured. By using or reusing resources wisely, we encourage sustainable, healthy lifestyles today and for generations to come.
• Strong Commerce: Commerce is the heartbeat of daily life, providing the essential needs for today and ensuring prosperity for the future. A strong economy incorporates the employment of community residents and the provision of goods and services that people need or desire.
• Sensible Infrastructure: Infrastructure allows people to live and work in a community. It is the large-scale public systems, services, and facilities that people rely on, including power and water, public transportation, communications, roads and schools.
• Positive Community Impact: Community impact is the influence that every home, workplace, infrastructure element, service or activity has on a neighborhood. For a community to function at its best, community members must work cooperatively to maximize productive and positive impact on others and the natural and built environment.
• Integrated Arts, Recreation, Culture, and Religion: Arts, recreation, culture and religion fulfill that part of our lives that falls beyond our basic physical necessities. They provide refreshing opportunities to interact with others in the community. By nourishing the mind, body and spirit, these elements play a vital role in the character and customs of every community.

Learn more about KeepSpace at www.keepspace.org.