Brick Market arcade enclosure and museum accessibility
Summary
The Museum of Newport History wants to fill in the open arches of the Peter Harrison-designed Brick Market with storefront glass to gain ADA access and first-floor exhibit space. Commissioners are split: some see a functional improvement, others say closing the historic arcade damages one of Newport's most important buildings.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 2
- Last 30 days
- 0
Last discussed Jun 11, 2026.
Impact analysis
The Historical Society is privately raising about $2.5 million for the restoration and exhibit work — no city money.
Museum visitors — including wheelchair users — get an accessible, welcoming front entrance and double the exhibit space.
Critics argue the open arcade — a defining historic feature of Washington Square — would be permanently altered for everyone who passes by.
Mentions & discussions (2)
Historic District Commission (Regular) - Jun 11, 2026
The Historical Society wants to glass in the 1772 Brick Market's front arcade for an ADA-compliant museum entrance as part of a $2.6 million new Museum of Newport History. Commissioners are split between accessibility and preserving the open arcade feel of a national historic landmark. A design review committee will try to find a middle ground before July.
Historic District Commission (Regular) - May 12, 2026
The Museum of Newport History wants to fill in the open arches of the Peter Harrison-designed Brick Market with storefront glass to gain ADA access and first-floor exhibit space. Commissioners are split: some see a functional improvement, others say closing the historic arcade damages one of Newport's most important buildings.
Related development
Glass wall, vestibule, ADA ramp, and signage, 365 Thames St
Would change the street-facing appearance of a prominent contributing building and improve accessibility.
City Hall vestibule, ADA ramp and signage
This would improve accessibility to a major public building in the heart of the historic waterfront district.
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