Westerly 250 commission outlines yearlong plans, proposes time capsule and $75,000 budget including a $60,000 drone show

The Westerly Semiquincentennial Commission presented its plan for celebrating America’s 250th in 2026 to the Town Council on Dec. 1, proposing a yearlong program of free and ticketed events, a town logo and a community time capsule.

Commissioners showed a proposed logo, "America 250 Westerly," and outlined partner organizations that would assist across education and cultural programming, including the library, Babcock-Smith House, Westerly Historical Society, public schools, United Theater and WBLQ. The commission said it intends to spread smaller events throughout the year and hold several signature gatherings, including a 4th of July commemoration and a May drone show timed to Rhode Island’s May 4 Independence Day.

James Wolf, a commission member and veteran, described a proposed Westerly time capsule to be buried on July 4, 2026 and opened on July 4, 2126. Wolf asked that residents of all ages contribute letters and items that capture life in Westerly for the next century; he said the commission intends to promote participation through schools, churches, veterans groups and civic organizations.

For its large public events the commission presented a $75,000 funding plan to cover a year of celebrations after projected revenues. Line items presented included an estimated $60,000 vendor cost for a drone show (a vendor proposal discussed at the meeting described a 270-drone show with 15-minute runtime and 68 pyro-enabled drones for enhanced effects) and approximately $4,000 for a time capsule. The commission said some events will be ticketed to offset costs (the Armory ball), most will be free, and it will pursue grants such as a possible $25,000 National Endowment for the Humanities award to help fund programming.

Commission members asked the council to consider endorsing the plan and authorizing use of town property for the time capsule and other activities. Several councilors complimented the commission’s work, noted time sensitivity because deposits will be needed for some vendors, and discussed possible funding sources including contingency and grant-match funds managed by the town.

The council did not finalize funding at the Dec. 1 meeting but asked the town manager and grants staff to help explore grant options and to return with options for how to meet deposit and contract deadlines.

The commission’s plans, if approved, would include educational programs, a time capsule, parades and community events spread across 2026 and partnerships with local cultural organizations; details and the final budget will be set after further discussion with town staff and council review.