EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — Construction to restore the historic Newman Cemetery in East Providence will begin early this spring. The city announced Friday that $50,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funding will be allocated to the project. Westport-based TNT Gravestone Solutions has been hired to repair 112 grave markers and two box tombs at the cemetery. According to the city, Newman Cemetery has the largest collection of 17th-century gravestones in Rhode Island and it's listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The gravestones have sustained significant deterioration, the city said, with some having fallen, others cracked, and some now covered by the ground. The restoration will include cleaning, as well as foundational and structural repairs, with technical assistance from the East Providence Historical Society and the Friends of Newman Cemetery. Sandra Turgeon, with the Friends of Newman Cemetery, noted that it is the final resting place of 145 Revolutionary War soldiers and the worksite of many prominent 18th-century gravestone carvers. "This is great news for the city that Newman Cemetery is being recognized as an importanthistorical and cultural resource worthy of preserving," Turgeon said. "Hopefully this project will further enhance the public's understanding of the history of East Providence." The work is expected to continue through the fall, according to the city. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup SIGN UP NOW