2 Exchange Terrace
Providence, RI 02903
View Map
Built in 1940, the John O. Pastore Post Office and Federal Building, located in downtown Providence, was turned over to the GSA in 1961 following completion of the nation’s first automated post office. The building remained under-utilized until the early 1970s, when long-planned renovations were finally undertaken. In 1977, the building was renamed after former Senator John O. Pastore, who had maintained offices there during his entire 26-year term.
Property Manager: David Colarusso
Public Hours: Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. - 5 p.m. (except federal holidays)
Public Access: Security screening required
Amenities: Post office in first floor lobby
Key Tenants: U.S. Postal Service, U.S. Probation Office, U.S. District Court, U.S. Marshals Service
Parking and Public Transportation
Public parking available. Less than a five minute walk from Providence Station (Amtrak/MBTA). Directly across from Kennedy Plaza (main bus hub for RIPTA).
History and Architectural Features
Post offices in cities such as Providence initially occupied rented quarters in commercial buildings. As the United States became more populous and prosperous, designs for post office buildings were developed. By the late 1920s, the need for additional space again became urgent. The city selected a site adjacent to the 1908 Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse to build, and a local architectural firm, Jackson, Robertson and Adams, received the commission to design an annex to the Beaux Arts building. The Post Office Annex, as it was then called, was completed by May 1940 at a cost of $896,000.
Fine Arts Collection
See the fine art collection at this building.
Landmark Status
Listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
U.S. General Services Administration
