Armory/West Broadway

Historically, the area on the West Side of the City was referred to as the West End. It was a place where East siders like Asa Messer, a President of Brown University, kept country estates. In fact, Obidlah Brown established a tavern at Cranston and Westminster Streets in 1739.

The turn of the century saw the area become densely populated with several mills being added. Many of the houses that were built then, remain today. Up until the early 1980's, the area had declined and was resistant to change - today it's been virtually transformed.

Now known as the The Armory District and West Broadway, the neighborhood is alive, safe and inviting.

Streets

Broadway, Westminster, Parade, Cranston, Bainbridge, Sycamore, Tobey, Harkness, Hudson, Weeden, Oak, Willow, Wood and Messer. The West Broadway Neighborhood Association (WBNA) is located in a refurbished historic gas station on Westminster Street at Sycamore Street. "It's like having a concierge/information/lobbying center right in your own backyard," explained a neighbor.

Streetlife

Dog heaven - it seems like everyone has one. The park adjacent to the Cranston Street Armory, a fortress-like structure at Cranston and Parade Streets, is always bustling with friendly people who truly love the neighborhood. The neighborhood market is the Hudson Street Market where everyone seems to know everyone. On weekends, there's the open-air market at Dexter and Westminster Streets where you can get fresh meat, fish, fruits and vegetables. There are also several unique Spanish markets.

Migration

Twenty-somethings and thirty-somethings. A decade ago they would have been called pioneers, today they're Gen-exers and yuppies. (Mostly kidless, although a visit to the park would belie this statement.) Very strong and stable Hispanic population. Increasing number of out-of-staters. One bedroom apartments start at $725 and two bedroom are from $850, but they are often dramatically different housing than in much of the City because of their uniqueness and spaciousness. Many multi-families which are attractive to owner-occupied buyers because of the dramatic reduction in the overhead. Fixer-uppers start in the $225,000 range and the rest of the market is between $250,000 - $500,000.

Growing Pains

Mixed blessings. Rising rents have forced some people to flee. However, it has allowed landlords to fix up and improve properties. Some of the fringe areas have been slower to improve, but some progress is being made.

Worth Checking Out

Julian's on Broadway for a great breakfast, lunch or dinner. Very up tempo - Jephry's one of the best floral designers in the City and White Electric, a coffee shop with evening entertainment on Friday and Saturday evenings. And, they have a Daily Bread.

Street Scapes

Spectacular houses with wonderfully creative and colorful paint jobs. Lots of trees and greenery. Very well maintained.