Good morning, Newport.

Residents raised e-bike safety concerns in letters to Newport This Week while local commissions and Bike Newport spread bilingual posters and offer free safety classes, and state lawmakers are updating regulations — an open house for the long-term Comprehensive Plan will be held at City Hall on Aug. 27 from 5:30 to 8 p.m.

The Newport Center for Black History opened in the historic Wanton-Lyman-Hazard house, showcasing interactive exhibits that share the stories of accomplished Black Newporters.

The center is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and invites visitors to share what community means to them (interactive display).

Newport Classical launches its Chamber Series this fall (12 diverse concerts from Sept.

18 to June 4) at the Recital Hall. The shows will feature quartets, soloists, and more with complimentary wine provided by Gold's Wine and Spirits to enhance the relaxed atmosphere.

Newport-based IYRS will launch a nine-month yacht design program on Sept.

9 that pairs students with local boatyards and designers for hands-on training in naval architecture, drafting, and 3D modeling — skills that prepare them for maritime careers.

Newport Councilor Jeanne Marie Napolitano noted that high spending in the school system faces questions after enrollment fell to 1,759 by 2025, while Mystic Valley in Malden produced strong test scores at almost half the cost per pupil.

The call is for smarter use of resources to improve student outcomes.

On Aug. 12, Newport City Council approved an $11M federal grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation and Federal Highway Administration to repair the Cliff Walk — part of $23M in planned funds following collapses four years ago — with a $2.8M local match approved as a 2024 bond measure.

A Newport County man in his 70s was diagnosed with Powassan virus on Thursday after developing symptoms in late July.

The case is the state's second confirmed infection in 2026.

The Rhode Island Department of Health recommended closing the swimming area at King Park Beach because of high bacteria counts and will continue monitoring water quality through Labor Day - current beach updates are available at 401-222-2751.

A new harm-reduction vending machine will soon install at Fire Station One to provide free health supplies and Narcan.

The Rhode Island Department of Health and AIDS Care Ocean State work with city officials to lower substance use risks while addressing local concerns (installation date not yet set).

Newport City Council approved a one-year pilot program that installs a public health vending machine at Fire Department Headquarters.

The machine will provide hygiene supplies, Narcan, and basic first-aid items to help residents facing addiction, homelessness, and mental-health challenges.