New energy-efficient pavilion dedicated at East Matunuck

Lois Cheney lights up when she talks about her four brothers, she says, “loved me and I loved them, and I knew it and they knew it, that means so much to me.” Today, her oldest brother was honored with a new beach pavilion, dedicated to him. Rhode Island State Trooper Daniel O'Brien died while saving people during Hurricane Carol in 1954.

The new energy-efficient pavilion opened today and state officials were on hand for the dedication and ribbon-cutting ceremony. Sen. Jack Reed said, “it took some time but the good news is, is it was done right and that this in the long run is not only going to be artistic and architecturally pleasing but it will also be efficient.”

Rhode Island DEM Director, Janet Coit explains that this is a state-of-the-art, green, facility that they are very proud of. The pavilion has composting toilets, a solar panel for hot showers, and a wind turbine that produces energy. Other amenities include, a new lifeguard tower, first aid room, concession stands and handicap accessible ramps. The 4.5 million dollar project was funded by a combination of state funds, settlement funds and federal stimulus grants.