PROVIDENCE – Legislation that would wrest some local control from communities that contain developable or blighted state-owned land of 20 acres or more is heading to the state Senate.
The proposal, introduced by Senate President Dominick J. Ruggerio, D-Providence, was approved by the Senate’s judiciary committee this week by an 8-1 vote. It is expected to be considered by the full body next week.
Ruggerio introduced the bill this year after becoming frustrated by the pace of development in the Interstate 195 redevelopment district in Providence. He said that too often, Rhode Islanders take a cynical view toward development and put up roadblocks.
The proposed $300 million Hope Point high-rise, in particular, should have received better treatment, he said. The project has had more than two years of hearings and meetings in Providence, as its development team has sought various city and state approvals.
His legislation would apply to all state-owned property of 20 contiguous acres or more, except environmental lands owned by the R.I. Department of Environmental Management.
If approved, it would create a commission that would shepherd development for designated districts. As the language now states: “Coordination is paramount to development as time delays, redundant approvals and local eccentricities often impede the development project.”
State Sen. Jessica de la Cruz, R-Burrillville, was the only member of the Judiciary Committee who voted against the proposal. She said, via e-mail, that she voted against the bill because she was concerned it could possibly impact the Zambarano Campus, which is in her district.
The campus, home to Eleanor Slater Hospital, includes state owned lands covering 460 acres in Burrillville. The hospital provides psychiatric and long-term, acute care services.
Mary MacDonald is a staff writer for the PBN. Contact her at macdonald@pbn.com.
About time for such a move. It’s time to get the NIMBY and other small minded, self interest crowds out of the development process.