North Kingstown Town Council Addresses Traffic Concerns and Troll Installation Issues
September 08, 2025 | North Kingstown, Washington County, Rhode Island
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The North Kingstown Town Council meeting on September 8, 2025, focused on several key issues, including amendments to the town's fee schedule and public concerns regarding traffic management and the recent installation of a troll sculpture in Ryan Park.
The meeting began with a public hearing on proposed modifications to the building permit fee schedule. After a brief discussion, the council unanimously approved the amendments, despite no public comments being registered.
The council then addressed a request from the North Kingstown School Committee to rename Davisville Academy to Davisville Academy and Early Learning Center. This proposal also passed without opposition after a public hearing that saw no attendees.
Public comments highlighted significant community concerns, particularly regarding traffic issues at the intersection of West Allenton and Route 4. Residents reported long wait times at the traffic light, with some experiencing delays of up to 21 minutes. Suggestions included adjusting the timing of the light to improve traffic flow and enhance safety, especially during peak hours.
Another major topic was the recent installation of the Thomas Dambo troll sculpture, which has drawn mixed reactions from residents. While some expressed excitement about the attraction, others raised concerns about increased traffic, parking issues, and disturbances in nearby neighborhoods. Residents reported problems such as public urination and unleashed dogs, prompting calls for better management and potential relocation of the troll to mitigate these issues.
The town manager acknowledged the concerns and indicated ongoing discussions with the Rhode Island Department of Transportation regarding traffic signal improvements. He also noted that while many visitors have enjoyed the troll, the administration is committed to addressing the challenges it has brought to the community.
In conclusion, the meeting underscored the council's responsiveness to public concerns while also highlighting the need for ongoing dialogue and solutions to improve traffic management and community satisfaction with new attractions. The council plans to continue monitoring these issues and will provide updates in future meetings.
The meeting began with a public hearing on proposed modifications to the building permit fee schedule. After a brief discussion, the council unanimously approved the amendments, despite no public comments being registered.
The council then addressed a request from the North Kingstown School Committee to rename Davisville Academy to Davisville Academy and Early Learning Center. This proposal also passed without opposition after a public hearing that saw no attendees.
Public comments highlighted significant community concerns, particularly regarding traffic issues at the intersection of West Allenton and Route 4. Residents reported long wait times at the traffic light, with some experiencing delays of up to 21 minutes. Suggestions included adjusting the timing of the light to improve traffic flow and enhance safety, especially during peak hours.
Another major topic was the recent installation of the Thomas Dambo troll sculpture, which has drawn mixed reactions from residents. While some expressed excitement about the attraction, others raised concerns about increased traffic, parking issues, and disturbances in nearby neighborhoods. Residents reported problems such as public urination and unleashed dogs, prompting calls for better management and potential relocation of the troll to mitigate these issues.
The town manager acknowledged the concerns and indicated ongoing discussions with the Rhode Island Department of Transportation regarding traffic signal improvements. He also noted that while many visitors have enjoyed the troll, the administration is committed to addressing the challenges it has brought to the community.
In conclusion, the meeting underscored the council's responsiveness to public concerns while also highlighting the need for ongoing dialogue and solutions to improve traffic management and community satisfaction with new attractions. The council plans to continue monitoring these issues and will provide updates in future meetings.
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