Wickford Elementary residential project receives CRMC assent; council cautions potential delay if waterfront path objection stands
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Summary
Town Manager Ralph reported that the Coastal Resources Management Council (CRMC) has provided assent for the Wickford Elementary residential project, but a neighbor’s objection over a public path to the waterfront could require the application to return to CRMC and cause delays. Planning‑commission action and closing timelines were discussed.
Town officials told the council that the Wickford Elementary residential redevelopment received assent from the Coastal Resources Management Council but faces a potential delay because the project’s original request included a public walking path to the waterfront and a neighboring objection remains unresolved.
Town Manager Ralph said the only outstanding issue identified by CRMC involved removal of the public path due to the objection. If the planning commission or town council determines the revised project omits a previously proposed walking path, the application could be required to return to CRMC and be subject to a full hearing, which would delay the project timeline.
Procedural timeline: Ralph said he would meet with project staff and that the planning commission is the next step for final approvals. He noted — based on memory and staff guidance — that the developer’s agreement requires closing within 30 days of receiving all approvals, and the planning commission review typically takes 60 to 90 days once the application is formally filed, though it may be shorter depending on hearing scheduling.
Council discussion emphasized the desire to have the parcel closed and the project moving in time for spring construction; councilors said the village has waited too long for the site to be occupied. The manager and planning staff pledged to continue working with the developer and to press for timely scheduling before the planning commission.
Why it matters: A return to CRMC for a new hearing would add procedural delay. If the developer closes by spring as councilors requested, project construction could begin in the next construction season.