Proposed Building Conversion Sparks Confusion at Zoning Meeting

The North Providence Planning Board convened on August 13, 2025, to discuss a proposed residential project that has raised questions regarding its structure and unit configuration. The meeting focused primarily on the conversion of an existing two-family home into a three-unit building, which has led to some confusion among board members regarding the application details.

The applicant clarified that the current structure, which accommodates two units, will be reconfigured into one unit, while the addition will introduce two new units. This means that, overall, the property will transition from two existing units to a total of three. However, the application initially stated that only one additional unit was being proposed, which led to questions about the presence of two front doors in the architectural plans for the new structure.

Board members expressed concerns about the implications of the design, noting that the elevation plans suggested more units than indicated in the application. The applicant acknowledged the confusion and explained that the intention was to clarify that while one existing unit would be removed from the original structure, two new units would be added in the proposed expansion.

The discussion also touched on the need for additional documentation, including floor plans, to provide a clearer understanding of the proposed changes. The applicant indicated that they had submitted these plans but would ensure that the board received all necessary information for review.

As the meeting concluded, the board emphasized the importance of clear communication in the application process to avoid misunderstandings in future proposals. The next steps will involve reviewing the submitted plans and addressing any remaining questions before moving forward with the project.