News Summary
A proposal for a 95-unit affordable housing development at the former Narragansett Park racetrack site in Pawtucket aims to address the demand for accessible living spaces. The project includes two three-story apartment buildings and five townhomes, with a focus on community engagement. Final approval is desired by late summer 2025, with plans for tax credits to support financing. The Arc of Blackstone Valley is spearheading the initiative, aligning with their mission to enhance community accessibility and support individuals with developmental disabilities.
Plans have been proposed for a 95-unit affordable housing development on a site that was once the home of Narragansett Park racetrack. This initiative was introduced during a recent pre-application meeting of the City Planning Commission.
The prospective development is located on a 10-acre property at 645 Narragansett Park Drive. This vacant lot spans 428,974 square feet and is currently zoned as commercial general. The proposal was presented by Jack Padien, the executive director of the Arc of Blackstone Valley.
The architectural plan for the development includes two three-story apartment buildings and five two-story townhomes. Each of the apartment buildings will feature one five-bedroom unit situated on the first floor, catering to families and individuals seeking affordable living options. Additionally, a total of 196 parking spaces are anticipated to be incorporated into the project to accommodate residents and visitors.
The City Planning Commission convened a pre-application meeting to gather public feedback on the proposal before any formal applications are submitted. This early engagement is aimed at addressing any potential concerns from local neighbors regarding the project. The commission has encouraged the applicant to constructively engage with community members during this phase.
The timeline for the project indicates that the applicant aims to secure final approval by late summer of 2025. Following this, plans are in place to apply for tax credits in December of that same year, which are vital for financing the project.
The Arc of Blackstone Valley, the organization leading the initiative, has a well-defined mission to build community connections and provide support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This housing development aligns with their goals of fostering a supportive living environment and enhancing the community’s accessibility to essential resources.
The location of the proposed housing development is strategically significant, as it is situated near a major mixed-use project being developed by the Carpionato Group. This notable project is located off Newport Avenue at the Pawtucket/East Providence city line, indicating an evolving urban landscape in that area.
The introduction of affordable housing projects is a response to the ongoing demand for accessible living spaces in Rhode Island. By converting previously commercial properties into residential ones, municipalities like Pawtucket can address housing shortages while promoting community growth and revitalization.
As the process continues, it will be critical for the Arc of Blackstone Valley to maintain open lines of communication with the community and local stakeholders. Doing so will help ensure that the development meets the needs of potential residents while fostering a sense of neighborhood support.
This proposed development at the former Narragansett Park racetrack reflects a broader trend in urban planning that prioritizes affordable housing solutions, making essential living accommodations available to a diverse range of individuals and families.
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Additional Resources
- Weather.com: Pawtucket Weather
- Providence Journal: Pawtucket Sports News
- Turn to 10: St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Pawtucket
- Boston Globe: Boston Rainfall Totals
- Wikipedia: Pawtucket, Rhode Island
