Little Compton Council considers petition for safety regulations at town landing

The Little Compton Town Council meeting on April 24, 2025, focused on significant issues regarding the town landing and its management, as well as updates on local infrastructure projects.

A primary discussion centered around the restrictive easement held by the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) on the town landing. The town solicitor provided an update on efforts to remove this easement, which currently limits the town's control over the property. The solicitor indicated that DEM has firmly rejected proposals to reserve certain areas for local residents and suggested that a property swap might be necessary to gain full control, a move deemed unlikely due to the unique characteristics of the town.

The solicitor proposed petitioning DEM for regulations to manage the property better, especially during peak usage times, which can lead to overcrowding and safety concerns. Community members expressed mixed feelings about potential restrictions, emphasizing the importance of maintaining access for all residents while also addressing issues like parking and erosion.

Several residents voiced their concerns about the impact of restrictions on community access to the landing. They highlighted the need for a balance between preserving the area and ensuring it remains accessible for local users. One resident noted that previous changes had reduced parking availability, which had not been an issue before.

In addition to the town landing discussion, the council briefly addressed updates on a paving project and the potential designation of scenic roadways in Little Compton. The scenic roadway program aims to preserve the area's natural beauty and enhance the experience for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. The council expressed interest in applying for this designation to better manage and protect local roadways.

The meeting concluded with a motion to further explore the petition to DEM and gather public input on the proposed regulations for the town landing. The council aims to ensure that community voices are heard as they navigate these complex issues.