CENTRAL FALLS – Mayor Maria Rivera joined U.S. Sen. Jack Reed, U.S. Representative Gabe Amo, Rhode Island Department of Education leaders, Central Falls School District officials, students, coaches, and community members last Friday to celebrate the official ribbon cutting of the new Francis L. Corrigan Basketball Courts, a major new recreational asset for the city and Central Falls High School community.
The approximately $600,000 project, funded through school construction investments associated with the new Central Falls High School, replaces the former courts at the Higginson Sports Complex and creates a modern, accessible space for athletics, recreation, and community gathering, states a release.. The facility includes two full-size basketball courts, ADA-accessible walkways and ramps, accessible bleachers, and community access outside of school hours.
The courts are named in honor of Francis L. Corrigan, whose dedication to youth sports and service left a lasting impact on generations of Central Falls families, according to officials.
“These courts represent opportunity, community, and the future we are building together in Central Falls,” said Rivera. “For generations, basketball has brought our city together. Today, we are investing in that tradition while creating a safe, accessible, and welcoming space where young people can grow, build friendships, and pursue their dreams. This is another example of how our new high school campus is serving not only our students, but our entire community. Thank you to our state leaders, congressional delegation, and community for supporting this important milestone.”
The ribbon-cutting ceremony featured remarks from state and local leaders, members of the Corrigan family, coaches, and student-athletes who spoke about the importance of creating spaces that bring residents together and provide opportunities for young people.
“This is a slam dunk for the community of Central Falls,” said Reed. “These freshly renovated basketball courts will bring new opportunities for residents of all ages to get outside, exercise, and connect with their neighbors in friendly competition, all in a welcoming and modern public space.”
“When we invest in public spaces, the entire community wins,” said Amo. “Thank you to Mayor Rivera, who led a full-court press to make today possible and everyone who worked hard to make sure Rhode Islanders of all ages can play, compete, and enjoy the new Francis L. Corrigan Basketball Courts.”
“The Corrigan family’s roots run deep in this city, which is why the original dedication was so important to my father, Bruce. It honored his Uncle Franny and the lasting impact he had on youth sports and generations of young people in Central Falls,” said Eunice Corrigan Neild, daughter of Francis L. Corrigan. “I’m grateful to celebrate this rededication with my cousins—his daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren—as well as with my sisters and mom. As time passes and places evolve, it’s important to honor those who came before us and the lasting impact they made, ensuring that Franny’s legacy continues to inspire future generations through this rededication.”
“As both commissioner of education and a proud Central Falls resident, this investment in a vibrant community space is deeply meaningful to me,” said Commissioner Angélica Infante-Green. “These courts are more than just a place to play, they are a space where our young people can build confidence, teamwork, and a sense of belonging. Investments like this ensure that our students and families have access to safe, high-quality environments that support their growth both in and out of the classroom.”
“Projects like these basketball courts, new high schools and train stations are only possible when local leaders work together to benefit their community,” said Dr. Mario Carreño, chief operating officer, Rhode Island Department of Education and Director of the School Building Authority.
“Basketball has always been a heartbeat of Central Falls. These courts at the new Central Falls High School were built to be a safe, vibrant space where the whole community can sharpen their skills, where neighbors can meet, and where the next generation of Warriors can dream big,” said Supt. Stephanie Downey-Toledo.
The facility will also serve as the home of the longstanding Ralph J. Holden Summer Basketball League, continuing a tradition that has connected Central Falls youth and families for decades.
“The moment of building and strengthening the Central Falls community culture is a dream come true for me!” said Ben Ramos, coach with the Ralph J. Holden Summer Basketball League.
Central Falls High School student-athletes also spoke about the importance of investing in recreational spaces for young people.
“The new basketball court is important to the Central Falls community because it gives people a place to come together, stay active, and enjoy the fun sport of basketball,” said Hazel Silva, a Central Falls High School student. “We are excited for summer league basketball because it brings the community back together and lets us represent Central Falls.”
“Thank you to the City of Central Falls for bringing this basketball court to the community, this means a lot to us,” said Michael Gomez Bello, a Central Falls High School student. “This basketball court will teach kids to learn basketball, or get better and meet new people.”
The Francis L. Corrigan Basketball Courts are now open and available for community use outside of school hours. Summer operating hours will be from 3-9 p.m., with courts closed during the school day from 8 a.m.-3 p.m.
The opening marks another milestone in the transformation of the new Central Falls High School campus and reflects the city’s continued commitment to investing in youth, recreation, accessibility, and quality-of-life improvements for residents.
