Route 2/102 Gateway Change is for Greater Good, Council Members Say

The three Town Council members who voted in favor of changes to the Comprehensive Plan for the Route 2 and 102 gateway, otherwise known as the Rolling Green project, have spoken out about their vote.

Council Members Elizabeth Dolan, Carol Hueston and Kerry McKay submitted the following letter:

Well, it seems election season is upon us.  To paraphrase a cliche, "It's going to be a bumpy ride."  We believe the recent change to the Route 2 /102 gateway is good for North Kingstown. 

•   Allows for a broadening of the tax base

•   Saves open space at no cost to the taxpayer

•   Is age targeted

•   Provides small retail, that is not destination shopping

•   Provides a walking friendly community

 This year taxes were lower than anticipated because there were more people on the tax rolls.  This development has the further potential to reduce taxes for all residents. 

 The town has spent countless dollars to preserve open space.  Here open space will be preserved at no cost to the taxpayer.

This will be an age targeted community.  Although 4ward Planning did not directly address Rolling Green,  this is the kind of housing they said was needed, housing for those who wish to downsize.

Much has been made of the retail component in this development.  This will not be destination shopping center.  It will be for the convenience of the residents.  It will be much like the retail of years ago with small stores in and around neighborhoods.  The retail will be set back from the road.

The neighborhoods in North Kingstown have become islands surrounded by highway.  Citizens cannot go anywhere without using their cars.  Rolling Green will be a walking friendly community where the residents will not have to jump in their car every time they want to go for a walk or go to the bank.

All in all, we feel the change to  the Comprehensive Plan is a win win for the residents of North Kingstown.

Signed,

Elizabeth Dolan
Carol Hueston
Kerry McKay