Charlestown housing proposal targets community needs amid density and affordability concerns
November 20, 2024 | Charlestown, Washington County, Rhode Island
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Concerns over affordable housing and environmental impact dominated the Charlestown Town Council's Planning Commission meeting on November 20, 2024. The discussion centered around a proposed housing project that aims to address the community's pressing need for affordable living options, but raised significant questions about its feasibility and implications.
The developers confirmed they have a purchase agreement with a local company, but clarified that the project is contingent on receiving approval from the board. A key point of contention was the project's density, which has been reduced by 13% following feedback from a Technical Review Committee meeting. Initially, the plan included two-story units to decrease the footprint, but the number of units remained the same, prompting concerns about whether the project truly meets the community's needs.
A significant aspect of the proposal is its focus on affordability, targeting units for families earning 20% of the area median income. However, developers acknowledged that even market-rate units are expected to sell between $500,000 and $600,000, which many residents argue does not adequately address the need for low-income housing. Critics expressed frustration that the project does not include a broader range of affordable options, particularly for those in the low-income bracket.
The conversation also highlighted the fragile state of Charlestown's infrastructure, with residents voicing concerns about the potential impact on groundwater from increased density. The developers assured attendees that they would adhere to environmental standards, but the community remains wary of the implications for their private wells and septic systems.
As the meeting concluded, it was clear that while the project aims to contribute to affordable housing, significant skepticism remains regarding its ability to meet the diverse needs of Charlestown residents. The council's next steps will be crucial in determining the future of this development and its alignment with community goals.
The developers confirmed they have a purchase agreement with a local company, but clarified that the project is contingent on receiving approval from the board. A key point of contention was the project's density, which has been reduced by 13% following feedback from a Technical Review Committee meeting. Initially, the plan included two-story units to decrease the footprint, but the number of units remained the same, prompting concerns about whether the project truly meets the community's needs.
A significant aspect of the proposal is its focus on affordability, targeting units for families earning 20% of the area median income. However, developers acknowledged that even market-rate units are expected to sell between $500,000 and $600,000, which many residents argue does not adequately address the need for low-income housing. Critics expressed frustration that the project does not include a broader range of affordable options, particularly for those in the low-income bracket.
The conversation also highlighted the fragile state of Charlestown's infrastructure, with residents voicing concerns about the potential impact on groundwater from increased density. The developers assured attendees that they would adhere to environmental standards, but the community remains wary of the implications for their private wells and septic systems.
As the meeting concluded, it was clear that while the project aims to contribute to affordable housing, significant skepticism remains regarding its ability to meet the diverse needs of Charlestown residents. The council's next steps will be crucial in determining the future of this development and its alignment with community goals.
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