North Providence Board Rejects 48 Unit Adaptive Reuse Application for Baird Avenue

Concerns over a proposed adaptive reuse project dominated the North Providence Planning Board meeting on May 21, 2025, as board members raised critical questions about the feasibility and safety of the application for 48 residential units on a 3.2-acre site. The proposal, which aims to transform an existing building into condominiums, has sparked debate regarding its compliance with state housing statutes and environmental safety.

Key issues highlighted during the meeting included the requirement for 20% of the units to be affordable, as mandated by Rhode Island law. Board members emphasized that the application lacked essential documentation, such as a letter of eligibility from Rhode Island Housing and detailed financial projections, which are necessary for a master plan review. "You can't wait till preliminary for that," one board member stated, underscoring the urgency for complete information at this stage.

Additionally, concerns were raised about the structural integrity of the existing building, which has reportedly suffered significant damage. Questions about whether the building could be reused or would need to be demolished were deemed crucial for determining the project's viability under adaptive reuse statutes. "Is this building gonna be reused or is it going to be demolished and rebuilt?" a board member asked, pointing out the implications for the project’s classification.

Flood zone issues also came to the forefront, with approximately 80% of the property located in a flood-prone area. Residents have expressed worries about drainage and flooding, particularly following recent heavy rainstorms. The board acknowledged that these environmental factors must be considered when evaluating the appropriateness of the proposed density of 48 units.

The meeting concluded with a call for further investigation into the environmental history of the site, which was previously used for manufacturing. Board members suggested that a Phase 1 environmental study may not suffice, advocating for more comprehensive assessments to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.

As the board prepares for future discussions, the fate of the adaptive reuse project remains uncertain, with significant questions still to be addressed regarding its feasibility, safety, and alignment with community needs.