Rhode Island Commission reviews historic preservation impact on housing development

The Special Legislative Committee on Land Use convened on April 3, 2025, to discuss the intersection of historic preservation and housing development in Rhode Island. The meeting featured presentations from Jeff Emmity, Executive Director of the Rhode Island Historic Preservation and Heritage Commission (RIHPHC), and Scott Wolf, Executive Director of GoSmart Rhode Island.

Emmity emphasized that historic preservation and housing development can coexist, highlighting the importance of collaboration between housing advocates and developers. He noted that many housing units have been successfully created through historic preservation tax credits, which incentivize the rehabilitation of historic properties for residential use.

The RIHPHC operates under federal and state laws that mandate the review of projects impacting historic properties. Emmity explained the review process, which includes identifying historic resources and assessing potential impacts on them. He illustrated this with a recent project in Lincoln that successfully established a historic district while rehabilitating mill housing.

The committee also addressed the challenges of adapting historic buildings for modern use, particularly in terms of compliance with preservation standards. Nicole Verdi, a committee member, shared her experience with converting the oldest wooden building in Providence into a mixed-use space, expressing the complexities involved in navigating the historic preservation tax credit process.

The discussions underscored the committee's commitment to balancing the need for housing with the preservation of Rhode Island's rich historical heritage. As the meeting concluded, members acknowledged the importance of continued dialogue and innovative solutions to meet both housing demands and preservation goals. The next steps will involve further consultations and potential adjustments to streamline the review process for future projects.