Cranston City Council to Consider Rezoning for 32-Unit Condominium Development

In a pivotal meeting on September 2, 2025, the City Plan Commission of Cranston gathered to discuss a significant zoning change proposal for a property located at 1746 Cranston Street. The meeting, held in the city hall, was marked by a sense of community engagement and a vision for revitalization.

Representatives from the Accido Family Trust, which has owned the property for nearly 50 years, presented their plans to rezone the site from C-5, designated for heavy business and industry, to C-2, a neighborhood business zone. This change would pave the way for a proposed development of up to 32 residential units, including a conceptual design for 30 condominiums. The project aims to enhance the neighborhood's character while providing much-needed housing in the Knightsville area.

Scott Aceto, a member of the Accido family, expressed deep personal ties to the property, recounting how it has been a family cornerstone for generations. He emphasized the importance of creating a development that honors the legacy of his grandfather and contributes positively to the community. The proposed design aims to blend with the existing neighborhood aesthetic, moving away from generic housing styles to something more unique and reflective of local heritage.

The developers also committed to including an affordable housing component, pledging that 15% of the units would be deed-restricted for at least 30 years, aligning with Rhode Island Housing guidelines. This aspect of the proposal was well-received, as it addresses the growing need for affordable living options in the area.

During the meeting, the commission reviewed the planning staff's recommendation to support the zoning change, which would allow for greater flexibility in development, including the potential for up to four stories in height. This flexibility is seen as crucial for creating a distinctive architectural style that enhances the neighborhood.

The discussion also highlighted the importance of community input, as a neighborhood meeting had been held prior to the commission's gathering, where local residents and officials expressed their support for the project. The developers plan to present their proposal to the ordinance committee in the coming week, marking a significant step forward in the development process.

As the meeting concluded, there was a palpable sense of optimism about the future of the Knightsville community. The proposed development not only aims to revitalize a long-vacant property but also seeks to foster a sense of belonging and continuity in a neighborhood rich with history. The commission's decision in the coming weeks will be crucial in determining the trajectory of this ambitious project.