Development doesn’t always equal progress and prosperity, or the certain destruction of natural resources and residential neighborhoods.
The truth is rarely so black and white. But that often is how the debate is framed over proposals such as the one now before the East Providence City Council to rezone the historic Metacomet Golf Club.
A Pawtucket-based developer has the 138-acre site under contract and sees potential for a mix of commercial and residential development that could generate millions of dollars in new tax revenue and create thousands of jobs.
While proponents naturally see such a project as a potential economic windfall, others say the land should stay undeveloped to preserve the natural resources and nearby neighborhoods.
Both interests have merit, but the project isn’t really a choice between polar opposites. About 70 acres, in fact, would remain undeveloped.
The real dispute is about change, which was inevitable once the property was offered for sale. The main question now for local officials is whether this is the right project.