Project in Newport moves forward as Middletown plans shelved

The Monthly Planning Board meeting for Middletown, Rhode Island, held on May 15, 2025, focused on several key agenda items, primarily concerning local development projects and community initiatives.

The meeting began with a discussion about a project proposal from Lucy's Hearth, a local organization. It was clarified that while Lucy's Hearth operates in Middletown, their current application is specifically for a project located in Newport. Initially, the organization had intended to apply for multiple projects across the state, as indicated in a letter of intent included in the meeting packet. However, they ultimately decided to focus solely on the Dexter Street site in Newport.

Board members engaged in a dialogue to clarify the scope of the application, confirming that the only project being pursued at this time is the one in Newport, rather than any initiatives in Middletown. This decision was met with understanding among the members, as they acknowledged the organization's strategic choice to concentrate their efforts.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the importance of supporting local initiatives while also recognizing the limitations of current applications. The Planning Board expressed a commitment to continue monitoring developments related to Lucy's Hearth and other community projects in the future.