Charlestown plans zoning changes for Cross Mills to enhance commercial viability
October 23, 2024 | Charlestown, Washington County, Rhode Island
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Charlestown's Planning Commission made significant strides towards enhancing the Cross Mills area during their regular meeting on October 23, 2024. The commission approved a proposal to transform the Cross Mills region into a cohesive village commercial center, aiming to revitalize the area and better align zoning regulations with community needs.
The plan involves changing the zoning of several lots along Old Post Road from traditional village district classifications to a new village commercial designation. This adjustment is intended to remove residential-only lots that are unlikely to be developed commercially, thereby streamlining the zoning framework and promoting a more integrated commercial environment.
During the meeting, discussions highlighted the need to ensure that only appropriate lots remain classified for commercial use. The commission identified three lots that would be converted to surrounding residential zoning, while also addressing inquiries from property owners about potential developments. Notably, one property owner expressed interest in developing a single-family home, but was informed that such use is not permitted under the current zoning.
The commission also discussed the procedural aspects of the zoning changes, emphasizing the importance of notifying affected property owners and ensuring compliance with state regulations. A favorable advisory was unanimously approved, signaling strong support for the proposed changes.
In addition to the Cross Mills zoning adjustments, the commission reviewed amendments to the town's zoning ordinance to align with recent state law changes. These amendments include updates to the definition of a household, which will now allow for more flexibility regarding the number of unrelated individuals living together.
The decisions made during this meeting are expected to foster economic growth in the Cross Mills area while ensuring that zoning regulations reflect the community's evolving needs. The commission's proactive approach demonstrates a commitment to enhancing local infrastructure and supporting sustainable development in Charlestown.
The plan involves changing the zoning of several lots along Old Post Road from traditional village district classifications to a new village commercial designation. This adjustment is intended to remove residential-only lots that are unlikely to be developed commercially, thereby streamlining the zoning framework and promoting a more integrated commercial environment.
During the meeting, discussions highlighted the need to ensure that only appropriate lots remain classified for commercial use. The commission identified three lots that would be converted to surrounding residential zoning, while also addressing inquiries from property owners about potential developments. Notably, one property owner expressed interest in developing a single-family home, but was informed that such use is not permitted under the current zoning.
The commission also discussed the procedural aspects of the zoning changes, emphasizing the importance of notifying affected property owners and ensuring compliance with state regulations. A favorable advisory was unanimously approved, signaling strong support for the proposed changes.
In addition to the Cross Mills zoning adjustments, the commission reviewed amendments to the town's zoning ordinance to align with recent state law changes. These amendments include updates to the definition of a household, which will now allow for more flexibility regarding the number of unrelated individuals living together.
The decisions made during this meeting are expected to foster economic growth in the Cross Mills area while ensuring that zoning regulations reflect the community's evolving needs. The commission's proactive approach demonstrates a commitment to enhancing local infrastructure and supporting sustainable development in Charlestown.
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