Development News for Cranston, Rhode Island

City Plan Commission Approves Subdivision with Reduced Lot Size Amidst Flooding Concerns

The City Plan Commission voted 4-3 to approve a subdivision at 44 Village Avenue (Elena Village) that creates one additional buildable lot, granting zoning relief for a reduced lot size. The existing house will remain on a smaller lot, and a new house will be built on a 10,000 sq ft lot. The approval includes conditions to preserve stone walls, redirect a drainage pipe, and address pavement restoration and impact fees. Concerns about water runoff and flooding on adjacent properties were noted, but the commission could only mandate that no new runoff be created on the property.

City Plan Commission Votes Against Proposed Zoning Changes to Reduce Lot Sizes

The City Plan Commission voted 5-1 to recommend a negative recommendation to the City Council on two proposed ordinances (03 and 04) concerning lot sizes and density. Commissioners expressed concerns about the ordinances being too simplistic, potentially leading to unintended consequences, and not adequately addressing issues like parking and stormwater management. They also felt the proposed lot sizes (3,000 sq ft for single-family, 4,000 sq ft for two-family) were too small and inconsistent with existing neighborhood character and density, despite acknowledging the need for housing and the potential to legalize existing non-conforming structures.

City Plan Commission Recommends Against Lowering Lot Size Minimums for Residential Development

The City Plan Commission voted to recommend a negative recommendation on two proposed ordinances (03 and 04) that would have allowed for smaller lot sizes and increased density in certain B1 and B2 zoning districts. Commissioners cited concerns about consistency with the comprehensive plan, potential for overdevelopment, inadequate parking, and the precedence of case-by-case reviews over broad zoning changes. They also noted the potential for state legislation to further reduce lot sizes, creating uncertainty.

City Plan Commission Divided on Gymnastics Facility Relocation Application

The City Plan Commission voted 3-3 on an application for a change of use and parking relief for Dream Big Gymnastics to relocate to 41 Western Industrial Drive. The existing building's use (jewelry manufacturing) is less intensive than the proposed gymnastics facility, but the applicant sought relief due to parking requirements based on building size. The revised plan proposes 56 parking spaces, an improvement over the current 35, but still short of code requirements. The commission noted that the zoning board might be stricter on change of use variances.