Planning Commission recommends conditional approval for shipping‑container storage at former Frito‑Lay site with limits

The Cranston City Planning Commission voted to forward a positive recommendation to the zoning board for a use variance requested by Willow Properties to store empty shipping containers at the former Frito‑Lay site on Stamp Farm Road.

Attorney David Johnson described the business operation for owner William Hogan: the firm leases empty storage containers to construction sites and stores returned containers on site until re‑leased. Johnson said the applicant typically stores fewer than 50 containers but proposed up to 84 on the new site if stacked three high; the maximum stacked height would be about 24 feet, which he said is below the nearby building height of about 27 feet.

Planning staff representative Mr. Ray recommended a positive recommendation, noting the proposed storage area is set back from the road, within rear setbacks, below maximum zone height and located in an industrial area. Commissioners discussed potential public‑safety issues and the historical problem of unregulated transfer yards increasing in height over time. Commissioner Lamp here moved to accept the staff recommendation with conditions requiring containers be empty, contain no hazardous materials, be limited to three high, and capped at 84 containers on site; Commissioner Renzulli seconded. The motion carried by voice vote.

Commissioners also requested conditions to limit onsite repair activities (no heavy sanding/painting) and to include a height limit to avoid future increases under new owners. The applicant and counsel said the operation performs light repairs only and has operated in other locations for decades without reported incidents.

The planning commission’s positive recommendation advances the matter to the zoning board of review, where the use variance and the suggested conditions will be considered for final action.