AIPC developed the first comprehensive database of Aquidneck Island's open space in 2011 to provide the communities of Newport, Middletown, and Portsmouth with accurate information on their open areas, including farmland, recreation areas, schools, and vacant land.

The maps and data produced through the project will aid Aquidneck Island communities and policy makers as they plan for future development, expand recreational opportunities, and protect key watersheds.

AIPC used geographic information systems (GIS) technology and data from the island municipalities and the State of Rhode Island to identify and map open space areas, including parks, beaches, ponds and reservoirs, farms, and vacant land. It categorized open space areas by land use, size, ownership type, zoning, and conservation status.

Among the report's findings are:

• Aquidneck Island has approximately 13,623 acres of open space; almost half is located in Portsmouth.
• Farmland comprises 31.7% of the island's open space, more than any other land use.
• There are 1,868 acres of land devoted to recreation on Aquidneck Island.
• There are 3,855 acres of publically-owned open space on the island; the largest public land owner is the City of Newport.

The final report, including maps, tables, and analyses, is available for download here:

Open Space Final Report

Open Space Appendices

Aquidneck Island Open Space Map

Newport Open Space Map

Middletown Open Space Map

Portsmouth Open Space Map