News Summary
The Cumberland Planning Board has officially approved the expansion of Rhode Island Energy’s training facility on Mendon Road. The project includes separate training areas for gas and electric crew operations and aims to enhance training capabilities while supporting local economic development. Board members raised concerns about noise and operational hours, but clarified that training will primarily occur during weekdays. The expansion is expected to impact eight acres of land and includes various specialized training zones. Further approvals are needed for the project to proceed.
Cumberland, Rhode Island – The Cumberland Planning Board has officially approved expansion plans for Rhode Island Energy’s training facility, signaling a significant development in the area. The facility will be situated on a 62-acre site off Mendon Road at the I-295 interchange and is designed to enhance the training capabilities for various energy crew operations.
The approved expansion will feature separate training areas for both gas and electric crew operations, aimed at providing a comprehensive learning environment for employees. Approximately eight acres of mostly wooded land will be impacted as part of this project. Plans include constructing an 8-foot barbed wire fence around the facility, which is subject to approval by the Town Council.
Board members expressed concerns regarding potential nuisance factors such as noise from trucks and the hours of operation for the facility, particularly regarding activities during weekends. However, it was clarified that most training sessions are planned to occur between 7 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., with weekend training being a rare occurrence and only conducted under special circumstances.
The expansion received its initial endorsement last year, with a master plan already approved. Recently, a more detailed preliminary plan has been outlined to provide clarity on the project’s intent and scope. The specific project addresses include 1595 Mendon Road, 38 Scott Road, and 96 Scott Road.
Currently, the site employs approximately 285 individuals, and the expansion seeks not only to enhance training capabilities but also to contribute to the broader economic development priorities outlined in the town’s comprehensive plan. The Planning Department has thrown its support behind the proposal, aligning it with the strategic goals for economic development in the region.
As part of the approved facility, various training zones will be utilized, notably including:
- An underground electric de-energized training area
- Gas excavation and outdoor training area
- Lower and upper gas villages
- An overhead electric village
- An underground residential distribution cul-de-sac
- Substation operation and maintenance areas
The facility will also offer training programs for commercial driver’s licenses, which will include re-striping of the existing pavement to accommodate the requirements.
The board’s decision remains conditional, dependent on merging lots and obtaining further approvals related to fire, water, and sewer systems. Notably, the principal planner, Abby McVerry, reported that the applicant has successfully addressed previous conditions related to lighting, landscaping, and stormwater management.
In conclusion, the expansion of the Rhode Island Energy training facility promises to bolster the operational capabilities of the workforce while fostering economic growth in Cumberland. The project is progressing through the necessary bureaucratic processes and aims to provide an effective training setup for its employees.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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