The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) and the University of Rhode Island (URI) have announced a joint initiative to restore and reopen the W. Alton Jones Campus. The project aims to reestablish the campus as a Natural Resource Center and Environmental Education Hub, while expanding public access and recreational options for residents.
Governor Dan McKee commented on the announcement, stating, “Alton Jones is a property with important environmental and historical value, and I know that people are eager for access to be restored to this incredible space. I’m proud that DEM and URI are working closely together to reopen and revitalize this asset for all Rhode Islanders to enjoy.”
DEM Director Terry Gray said, “DEM is proud to partner with URI on this significant initiative. Through this investment, we reaffirm our shared commitment to conservation, education, research, and meaningful community engagement. With decades of expertise in land stewardship, capital development, and long-term planning, our team is uniquely positioned to help shape the future of the W. Alton Jones Campus. This project reflects the core of DEM’s mission — to protect, restore, and promote Rhode Island’s natural resources while ensuring lasting public access to them.”
URI President Marc Parlange added: “The W. Alton Jones Campus is an extraordinary asset for the University of Rhode Island and for communities across Rhode Island. This partnership with the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management reflects our shared commitment to protecting the natural character of the campus while strengthening its role as a center for learning, discovery, and public connection. We’re grateful to DEM for its partnership and investment in ensuring the campus continues to serve as a vibrant resource for education, research, and meaningful community engagement.”
According to DEM officials, more than $2 million will be invested in phased improvements beginning in spring 2026 with plans to restore public access by year-end. Planned projects include preparing staff offices in the Main Office Building; renovating educational facilities; restoring farm buildings through sustainable subleases; improving wayfinding; enhancing overall accessibility; and implementing a Forest Management Plan aimed at ecological health.
URI researchers will continue their work on site as part of ongoing efforts that link academic research with practical stewardship activities in fields such as environmental science, forestry, agriculture, conservation, among others.
The revitalized campus will also become a meeting place for environmental education organizations statewide by offering expanded programming alongside deeper partnerships between URI faculty/students and outside groups.
Public recreation remains central within DEM’s mission—Rhode Islanders can expect opportunities such as fishing or non-motorized boating on Eisenhower Lake; improved trail connections; guided nature programs; plus event spaces available for community use.
The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management Division of Agriculture and Forest Environment supports state agricultural viability through grant programs like Farm Energy Program or Organic Certification Cost Share Reimbursement (FACT 1), sustains local food/seafood marketing via Local Agriculture & Seafood Act grants (FACT 5), manages permits/inspections/certifications supporting plant exporters/farms (FACT 6), organizes sustainability-focused initiatives promoting growth across agricultural/forestry sectors (FACT 7), registers produce farms/manages land protection programs (FACT 7), oversees operations at state level (FACT 4), employs leaders such as Ken Ayars (chief) or Scott Marshall (deputy chief/state veterinarian) (FACT 3).
More information about these programs can be found on their official website.
