Residents oppose duplex development for college students near Oak Street homes
August 13, 2025 | South Kingstown, Washington County, Rhode Island
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The South Kingstown Town Council meeting on August 12, 2025, focused on community concerns regarding the construction of new duplexes on Oak Street, which are expected to be rented primarily to college students. Residents expressed strong opposition to the development, fearing it would disrupt the neighborhood's character and lead to increased noise, traffic, and parking issues.
One resident, Ed Orsillo, who has lived on Oak Street for 33 years, voiced his concerns about the impact of the five-bedroom units being built next door. He highlighted that the units would likely attract at least 20 college renters, resulting in significant noise and parking congestion. Orsillo argued that the town's housing crisis could be better addressed by selling these units as condos, allowing young adults to invest in property rather than renting dorm-style accommodations.
Meredith Masson, speaking on behalf of her daughter who lives across from the construction site, echoed Orsillo's sentiments. She described the new buildings as out of place in a residential area and expressed disappointment in the town's decision to allow such developments. Masson emphasized the emotional toll this situation has taken on long-time residents who cherish the community's history and tranquility.
Another resident, Janet Hanley Greenberg, who purchased a lot from the previous owners of the Holly's property, expressed frustration over the rapid approval of the duplexes. She noted that she was led to believe a single-family home would be built, and now feels her investment and peace of mind are compromised.
Town officials explained that recent changes in Rhode Island law allow for up to five unrelated individuals to live in a single dwelling, which facilitated the approval of the duplexes. They clarified that the town cannot discriminate against potential renters based on their status as students or families, as long as the development meets zoning requirements.
The council acknowledged the residents' concerns but emphasized that the current regulations limit their ability to intervene in the development process. As the meeting concluded, it was clear that the community remains divided over the future of Oak Street and the implications of increased student housing in residential neighborhoods. The council plans to continue discussions on how to balance development with community needs in future meetings.
One resident, Ed Orsillo, who has lived on Oak Street for 33 years, voiced his concerns about the impact of the five-bedroom units being built next door. He highlighted that the units would likely attract at least 20 college renters, resulting in significant noise and parking congestion. Orsillo argued that the town's housing crisis could be better addressed by selling these units as condos, allowing young adults to invest in property rather than renting dorm-style accommodations.
Meredith Masson, speaking on behalf of her daughter who lives across from the construction site, echoed Orsillo's sentiments. She described the new buildings as out of place in a residential area and expressed disappointment in the town's decision to allow such developments. Masson emphasized the emotional toll this situation has taken on long-time residents who cherish the community's history and tranquility.
Another resident, Janet Hanley Greenberg, who purchased a lot from the previous owners of the Holly's property, expressed frustration over the rapid approval of the duplexes. She noted that she was led to believe a single-family home would be built, and now feels her investment and peace of mind are compromised.
Town officials explained that recent changes in Rhode Island law allow for up to five unrelated individuals to live in a single dwelling, which facilitated the approval of the duplexes. They clarified that the town cannot discriminate against potential renters based on their status as students or families, as long as the development meets zoning requirements.
The council acknowledged the residents' concerns but emphasized that the current regulations limit their ability to intervene in the development process. As the meeting concluded, it was clear that the community remains divided over the future of Oak Street and the implications of increased student housing in residential neighborhoods. The council plans to continue discussions on how to balance development with community needs in future meetings.
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