North Providence Planning Board reviews adaptive reuse project at 114 Beard Avenue

The North Providence Planning Board convened on May 21, 2025, to discuss a significant application for a residential development project at 114 Beard Avenue. The meeting, which was a continuation from a previous session in February, focused on a proposal to convert two existing buildings from a former cement company into a residential facility with 48 units.

During the meeting, board members expressed concerns about the appropriateness of using the planning board as a platform for neighborhood discussions. One member emphasized that the board should not serve as a venue for the applicant to pitch their project to residents, suggesting that such discussions should occur separately. The applicant, represented by Jack McGree, indicated a desire to move forward with the application despite these concerns.

The proposal seeks master plan approval, with the applicant clarifying that they are not requesting preliminary approval at this time. The project includes one building with 42 units and another with 6 units, adhering to the zoning ordinance that allows for a density of at least 15 units per acre.

In response to previous board requests, the applicant submitted a traffic impact assessment prepared by Paul Bannon, who was present to discuss his findings. Additionally, a Phase 1 environmental study is planned for the preliminary review stage, although it has not yet been completed. The applicant provided a title policy confirming that there are no recorded environmental restrictions on the property that would hinder its conversion to residential use.

Bannon, a senior project director with extensive experience in civil and environmental engineering, was recognized as an expert witness by the board. He is expected to present his traffic assessment findings in detail in subsequent discussions.

The meeting underscored the ongoing dialogue between the planning board and the applicant, as well as the importance of community engagement in the development process. The next steps will involve further evaluation of the traffic study and environmental assessments as the board continues to deliberate on the application.