SMITHFIELD, R.I -- The town's Planning Board has postponed its decision on whether to recommend approval of a zone change that would pave the way for construction of a mixed-use village with a 100-room hotel, stores, offices and as many as 168 residential units on nearly 29 acres at Esmond Street and Route 44.
Board chairman Michael Moan said members agreed Thursday night that before rendering and decision on the proposal by Providence developer Churchill & Banks they want to review a traffic study commissioned by the Town Council, an economic impact analysis from the developer, and review some of the specific changes in the zoning regulations that the developer is requesting for the site.
He said the board expects to issue a recommendation on July 25, five days before the Town Council plans to hold its own hearing.
By Richard C. Dujardin