March 19, 2024

Planning Director Retires after nearly 30 years

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East Providence, RI – The city of East Providence today announced that Diane M. Feather, A.I.C., acting director of the East Providence Planning Department has retired after serving as acting planning director for the city since 2017 and chief planner since 1990.

“It has been my privilege to serve the city and citizens of East Providence for over 29 years in the Planning Department,” Feather said. “I thank the knowledgeable, hard-working, professional staff of planners in the department, as well as the many colleagues in departments of the city who have been part of working for the future of the city.

“My very best to Mayor DaSilva and to all the volunteers who serve on the boards and commissions of the city as they continue the hard work. I can’t thank everyone enough for a wonderful and fulfilling 29 years. I look forward to spending more time in my long-time home and neighborhood in Riverside.”
As chief planner, Feather authored the plan that became the driving force for the creation of the  East Providence Waterfront Special Development District.

“Diane Feather has been a huge advocate for this city,” Mayor DaSilva said. “She has been instrumental in overseeing the planning of numerous projects throughout the city from the rehabilitation of Rumford Chemical mill, now a vibrant, mixed-use development, to many recreation projects including a reflection garden and splash pad park.

“We wish Diane a happy and healthy retirement,” DaSilva added.

During Feather’s time with the city she was able to bring $850,000 in Volkswagen settlement money to East Providence for the implementation of a storm water management plan for Sabin Point Park.

Feather is a member of the American Planning Association and the American Institute of Certified Planners. She also served as president of the Rhode Island Chapter of the American Planning Association (RIAPA) from 2006-2010.

When she is not at City Hall, Feather can be found volunteering her time with many organizations including the East Providence Waterfront Special Development District Commission and the Design Review Subcommittee of the Waterfront Commission.

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