Five Questions With: Hugh Fisher

IN IT TOGETHER: "In our firm, we always desire a working dialogue with each community we develop homes in and view the local officials as partners, together with us." / COURTESY H.A. FISHER HOMES
IN IT TOGETHER: "In our firm, we always desire a working dialogue with each community we develop homes in and view the local officials as partners, together with us." / COURTESY H.A. FISHER HOMES

Hugh Fisher, owner of Warwick-based h.a. Fisher Homes LLC, recently donated more than 18 acres of land to the city for open space, which Mayor Scott Avedisian said will enhance pedestrian access and wildlife corridors around Rocky Point Park. Fisher is a developer of newly constructed homes and condominiums, and is now building the North Kingstown development Reynolds Farm.
PBN: You recently donated 110 lots, more than 18 acres, between Rocky Point Avenue and Meadowview Avenue to the city of Warwick. Why did you donate land? It seems like a developer would want to hang on to property?
FISHER:
From my childhood, as a resident of the area, and as a developer, I have always had an interest in Rocky Point. Back in 2012, I was approached by [Principal Planner] Dan Geagan, of the Warwick Planning Department, in regards to some of my land holdings around Rocky Point. The city, in conjunction with the [R.I.] Department of Environmental Management, was looking to connect a pathway from Rocky Point further into the surrounding neighborhood.
Once I understood the vision that the city and DEM had, I was more than happy to donate six home sites to help complete that phased loop, known as the Rocky Point Extension. While at the dedication ceremony, I had further discussion with Lisa Primiano [chief of the Division of Planning and Development] at DEM, on the shared vision for the special treasure of Rocky Point. This prompted me to think how we might be able help with this, precipitating another meeting with Geagan, Primiano, and me on the potential of connecting all the Rocky Point area. With the mutual love of green/open space, walkability and greater community enjoyment, why not? Hence the July 2016 donation.

PBN: What will the land now be used for?
FISHER:
The 18-acre donation to the city will be used as green space for now and forever. It’s a beautiful thing.

PBN: Were these buildable acres?
FISHER:
Yes, some of the land is definitely high and dry, and good for development. Other parts are beautiful wetlands and trails.

PBN: Any plans to do this again in Rhode Island with any other holdings?
FISHER:
Never know! We’ll cross that bridge as we come to it.

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PBN: Do developers not get enough credit for working with municipalities?
FISHER:
You’d have to ask the communities that. In our firm, we always desire a working dialogue with each community we develop homes in and view the local officials as partners, together with us. It is of utmost importance to us that we create long-lasting developments that not only our clients will be proud of, but the cities and towns would also, for years to come. Our name will be on it forever and you only get one chance to do it right.

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