Local Council discusses quick lube facility design on challenging Mineral Springs site

The North Providence Planning Board meeting on July 9, 2025, focused on a proposed quick lube facility located on a challenging site characterized by significant grade changes and multiple street frontages. The site, measuring approximately 0.454 acres, presents unique engineering challenges due to a 17 to 18-foot elevation difference from the top left to the bottom right corner, as well as a 10-foot grade change along Mineral Spring Avenue.

The proposed facility will be a 1,745 square-foot building featuring three service bays, designed for quick oil changes with an average service time of just 12 minutes. The facility is classified under the Commercial General District, making it a permitted use. Notably, the operation is expected to generate low traffic, with peak hours seeing only 16 to 17 vehicle trips during the week and 14 trips on weekends.

The design aims to maximize open space around the facility, accommodating the site's topography while ensuring safe access. The proposal includes a request for waivers regarding parking requirements, as only six parking spaces are planned, compared to the 18 spaces typically required for auto service centers. This is justified by the nature of the quick lube service, where customers remain in their vehicles during service.

The Planning Board acknowledged the challenges posed by the site’s grade and traffic patterns, emphasizing that the smaller scale of the proposed facility is well-suited for the location. The next steps will involve further discussions with the Department of Transportation to address access and sightline concerns. Overall, the project aims to provide a convenient service while minimizing its impact on local traffic and maintaining open space.