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Council discusses nonbinding options for reuse of former Compton Mill site as study nears completion
Summary
Town staff told the West Warwick Town Council that a Phase 1/Phase 2 environmental study of the former Compton Mill site is nearly complete and that the Department of Environmental Management (DEM) is preparing recommendations tied to possible future uses. Council members expressed a preference for keeping the lots as open recreational space or to
Town staff told the West Warwick Town Council on Feb. 4 that a Phase 1 and Phase 2 environmental study of the former Compton Mill site on Pulaski Street is nearly complete and that the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management will frame remediation recommendations based on the town27s intended reuse.
Staff said DEM requested guidance from the council on the town27s likely use of the two lots because remedial options and their costs differ depending on whether the town plans for recreation/open space, a paved parking or commercial use, or a resale to a private buyer. The town27s planner indicated the options being modeled include: recreational fields or a dog park, a low-intensity open space, or commercial development with parking.
Council members discussed trade-offs. Some councilors expressed concern about incurring ongoing maintenance costs if the town retained and maintained the lots as parkland; others saw value in keeping recreation options available after the recent Crompton playground investment. At least one council member noted a private neighbor had shown interest in purchasing at least one lot to improve access to an adjacent building and add parking.
Councilors reminded staff that any sale of town land would require appraisal and the appropriate public processes, including potential referendum requirements if state or local rules demand it. One council member noted a prior mill parcel sale that had significantly increased in value once Phase 1/2 environmental work was completed and a developer knew what remediation would be required.
No binding vote was taken; members characterized the discussion as nonbinding guidance for DEM and staff as the study is finalized. Officials said they will await the written Phase 2 report and remediation options before committing to any course of action.
The council27s preference, as stated during the meeting, appeared to lean toward keeping the site available for low-intensity recreational or commercial resale, but that final choice will depend on DEM27s findings and cost estimates. Any sale or remediation plan would return to the council for formal action.
