Rhode Island Senate OKs bill assertng state control of former 195 land

The Rhode Island Senate Tuesday voted to try to kick-start development of the former Route 195 land Tuesday by overriding Providence’s zoning authority there.

Legislation championed by Senate President Dominick Ruggerio and passed 28-8 would create special state development districts starting with the 195 land on state-owned areas of at least 20 acres.

Ruggerio introduced the bill in response to the municipal obstacles encountered by the Fane Organization trying to build a 46-story apartment tower on the 195 land. The project is now in court.

All three Democrats who joined the five Senate Republicans in opposition to the bill represent Providence, reflecting the divided opinions in the city about the Fane proposal and the idea of the state potentially taking local power away.

Read more: https://www.providencejournal.com/news/20190611/ri-senate-oks-bill-assertng-state-control-of-former-195-land