Providence Parks

History

When new play structures were installed in 1994, Fargnoli Park was the first Providence Parks “community build” playground- in which neighborhood residents organized the construction in an effort led by Councilwoman Evelyn Fargnoli.

Initially called Nelson Street playground, this highly used park in the Elmhurst neighborhood was deeded to the city in 1930 and later dedicated in 1982 to honor City Council President Ralph Fargnoli.

The main park entrance is on Smith St. There are additional entrances on Jastram St, and two on April Court- by the waterpark and basketball court, respectively. There are approximately two tenths of a mile of paved walking paths throughout the park.

Recent Improvements

• Basketball courts were renovated in 2023.
• 2020 improvements include expanded natural playground and waterpark, mobility device accessible play features, new fencing, native planting, and picnic areas.
• MyHomeCourt project with artist Jim Drain, 2018
• 5-12 play area (wooden posts) 2017.

Baseball Field

• Intermediate youth play (Cal Ripken)
• Equipped with irrigation, lights, dugouts, bleachers, bullpen, batting cage, scoreboard, and press box.
• 50/70 – LF 200ft – CF 200ft – RF 200ft
• Infield cutouts designed after Fenway Park
• T-Ball diamond behind centerfield fence – 35/42

Basketball Courts

• Two lined courts with fenced sidelines, regulation free throw and (high school) 3-point lines
• Court 1 : 84ft x 48ft with player benches, bleacher, and breakaway rims
• Court 2 : 62ft x 44ft with full sized goals