NAVIGATING WEDDING PLANNING
A Timeline for the Perfect RI Wedding!
BUSINESS PROFILE: PAUL CORASTINE
An Original Corastine Locksmith
RESTAURANT GUIDE
for all of the eateries you need to visit in Rhode Island! Check out our
GETTING INTO COLLEGE
Helpful Tips for Navigating the College Admission Maze
HOUSE OF THE MONTH
Stunning Home in Westerly listed by Lila Delman.
8
AUGUST EVENTS
Things to do in Rhode Island this August
GETTING INTO COLLEGE
BUSINESS PROFILE: PAUL CORASTINE
From General Store to Specialized Locksmithing
16 RESTAURANT GUIDE
20
28
Navigating the college admission maze 31
Our guide to some of the best restaurants in the Ocean State
NAVIGATING WEDDING PLANNING
A Timeline for the Perfect Rhode Island Wedding
HOUSE OF THE MONTH
Westerly home listed by Lila Delman/Compass
BALANCING AFFORDABLE HOUSING & ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
A Complex Challenge in RI 33 REAL ESTATE AGENCY DIRECTORY
Your detailed guide to local Real Estate 40 AUTO DIRECTORY
Your go-to source for all things auto in Rhode Island
AUGUST EVENTS
to discover in Rhode Island
ART IN THE PARK FAMILY ART & LITERACY WORKSHOP
Have fun, make art, make new friends! These family community workshops will engage you and your kids in a story and art project with inspiring themes, such as kindness, positivity, perseverance, and mindfulness. Art in the Park connects families and communities, engaging children in reading, art, and collaborative discussions about a variety of social and emotional concepts, such as positivity, kindness, perseverance, and diversity. Build your young artist's self-confidence, emotional intelligence, empathy, and mindfulness. Join us for these weekly community events located conveniently in the Central Falls Veterans Memorial Park. We will read an illustrated children's book together, discuss the important messages of the story, and do a fun art project related to the story's theme. Be sure to register your family, as this event has limited space. Register online at https:// empowermentfactory.org/artin-the-park or call our office at 401-365-1010
Presented By: The Empowerment Factory
Dates: July 11, 2024August 8, 2024
Recurrence: Recurring weekly on Thursday
Location: Veterans Memorial Park
Address: 416 Hunt St, Central Falls, 02863
Phone: (401) 365-1010
Time: 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Price: free
ACOUSTIC THURSDAYS!
Moonshine Unplugged: join us at Moonshine Alley for LIVE ACOUSTIC MUSIC every Thursday from 9-11 pm with rotating local artists and a range of acoustic originals & classic covers! Get a taste of Nashville with great music, craft cocktails and Southern bites... we can't wait to see y'all there!
Dates: March 14, 2024March 13, 2025
Recurrence: Recurring weekly on Thursday
Location: Moonshine Alley
Address: 52 Pine St, Providence, RI 02903
Phone: (401) 861-0001
Time: 9:00 PM
ADULT ABSOLUTE BEGINNER BALLET
This class is designed for beginner adult students interested in learning classical ballet. Foundational positions, posture, and simple steps will be learned. This class is a great way to improve your flexibility, tone muscles, and learn a new skill. Classes are taught in an enjoyable and supportive atmosphere where adults can feel the social benefits of a group class while developing friendships and personal growth. Class is structured but allows room for laughter and fun! Ages 14-99.
Dates: June 27, 2024August 22, 2024
Recurrence: Recurring weekly on Thursday
Location: Newport Contemporary Ballet
Address: 3 Charles Street, Newport, RI 02840
Time: 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Price: See website
DOWNCITY PROVIDENCE FOOD TOUR
Delicious adventure awaits where food, art, and architecture collide in Providence’s vibrant Downcity Arts District. Sample 6 food tastings from diverse Rhode Island favorites and award winning culinary restaurants/ eateries, and between bites get an insider’s view of this lively and creative small city.
Dates: April 18, 2024December 28, 2024
Recurrence: Recurring weekly on Sunday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday
Location: Rhode Island
Red Food Tours
Address: , Providence, RI 02903
Time: 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Price: $76 - 5-6 food tastings or $945-6 food tastings w/3 paired alcohol tastings
ESCAPE THE BUNKER
The klaxon wails in the empty woodland surrounding Missile Battery PR-79. Tonight is the night the crew has been preparing for… one final hot launch test before the base goes fully operational at 0600. You know something isn’t quite right, but it is too late to push the test off now. Does your crew have what it takes to complete your mission, at all costs?
Escape the Bunker is intended for 2+players, although teams of at least 4+ players is highly encouraged. Teams have one hour to try and escape! All games are now private! See website for detailed list of dates/times.
Recurrence: Recurring weekly on Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday
Location: Escape Rhode Island
Address: 385 S. Main Street, 2 FLR, Providence, RI 02903
Price: $79+
Exciting Changes Coming to
Discover Rhode Island Magazine
As we approach our ten-year anniversary in 2025, Discover Rhode Island is thrilled to announce a series of exciting upgrades to our magazine starting with our August issue. These enhancements are designed to bring you closer to the heart of our beautiful state with more original content, vibrant local images, captivating stories about local businesses, and a fresh, new layout!
More Original Content
At Discover Rhode Island, we believe in the power of storytelling. Starting in August, you can look forward to an abundance of original articles that delve deeper into the unique aspects of our state. Our team of talented writers will be covering a wide range of topics, from hidden gems and local events to in-depth profiles of Rhode Island’s most fascinating
personalities. We are committed to providing you with engaging and informative content that you won’t find anywhere else.
More Local Images
We’re also excited to bring you more stunning local photography. Our pages will be filled with vibrant images that capture the essence of Rhode Island’s picturesque landscapes, historic landmarks, and bus-
tling communities. By featuring more local photographers, we aim to showcase the beauty and diversity of our state through the eyes of those who know it best. Each image will tell a story, inviting you to explore Rhode Island in all its glory.
More Stories About Local Businesses
Supporting local businesses has always been at the core of our mission. In our upcoming issues, we’ll be shining an even brighter spotlight on the entrepreneurs and establishments that make Rhode Island special. From family-owned shops and innovative startups to beloved eateries and artisanal crafts, our stories will celebrate the spirit of local enterprise. We’ll take you behind the scenes, sharing the challenges and triumphs of these businesses and the people who drive them.
An Entirely New Layout
We’re not just enhancing our content; we’re also giving our magazine a complete makeover! Our new layout is designed to offer a more enjoyable and immersive reading experience. Ex-
pect a modern, sleek design with easy-to-navigate sections, eyecatching graphics, and a harmonious blend of text and imagery. Whether you’re reading a longform feature or browsing through our event listings, the new layout will make it easier and more enjoyable to find the information you’re looking for.
Looking Ahead to Our Ten-Year Anniversary
These upgrades mark an exciting milestone as we approach our tenth anniversary. Since our inception, Discover Rhode Island has been dedicated to celebrating the people, places, and stories that make our state unique. As we prepare to celebrate a decade of storytelling, we remain committed to evolving and improving to serve you better.
We can’t wait for you to experience these changes in our August issue and beyond. Thank you for being a part of our journey. Here’s to many more years of discovering Rhode Island together!
Stay tuned, stay curious, and keep discovering.
- The Discover Rhode Island Team
GETTING INTO COLLEGE
As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, high school seniors across the country embark on one of the most significant journeys of their academic careers: the college admission process. With countless options, rigorous requirements, and the pressure to secure a spot at a dream school, this period can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. To shed light on this complex process, we spoke with admissions experts, counselors, and recent college graduates to gather essential tips and insights for aspiring students.
THE EVOLUTION OF COLLEGE ADMISSION
College admissions have evolved significantly over the past few decades. What once seemed a straightforward process has transformed into a highly competitive and multifaceted endeavor. "The landscape has changed dramatically," says Sarah Bennett, a college admissions counselor with over 20 years of experience. "Today's students face more competition and higher expectations than ever before."
THE IMPORTANCE OF EARLY PLANNING
One of the most critical pieces of advice from experts is to start early. "Begin exploring colleges and preparing for admissions tests by the sophomore year of high school," advises Bennett. Early planning allows students to build a strong academic record, participate in extracurricular activities, and gain valuable leadership experience.
BUILDING A STRONG ACADEMIC PROFILE
Academic performance remains a cornerstone of college admissions. Admissions officers look for students who have challenged themselves with rigorous coursework and maintained strong grades. "Taking Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) courses demonstrates a student's willingness to tackle difficult subjects," explains John Wilson, a former admissions officer at a prestigious university. However, it's not just about the grades. Admissions committees also consider the context of a student's academic environment. "We evaluate students within the context of their school and the opportunities available to them,"
Wilson adds. "A student's academic trajectory and resilience in the face of challenges are equally important."
THE ROLE OF STANDARDIZED TESTS
While some colleges and universities have adopted testoptional policies, standardized tests like the SAT and ACT still play a significant role in the admissions process. "Standardized tests provide a common measure to compare students from different schools and backgrounds," says Bennett. She recommends that students take these tests multiple times to achieve their best possible scores. For those applying to testoptional schools, it's essential to understand that these institutions still value strong test scores when submitted. "If your test scores are a positive reflection of your abilities, it can enhance your application," Bennett advises.
CRAFTING A COMPELLING PERSONAL STATEMENT
The personal statement or college essay is a crucial component of the application. It offers students an opportunity to showcase their unique voice and personality. "Your essay should tell a story
that highlights your passions, experiences, and growth," suggests Emily Rogers, an English teacher who helps students with their college essays.
Admissions officers seek authenticity and insight into what makes a student tick. "Avoid cliches and focus on specific experiences that have shaped you," Rogers emphasizes. "A well-written essay can make a significant impact on your application."
SHOWCASING
EXTRACURRICULAR INVOLVEMENT
Extracurricular activities provide a window into a student's interests, skills, and commitment. Colleges look for well-rounded individuals who have pursued their passions outside the classroom. "Depth of involvement is more impressive than the number of activities," says Wilson. "Leadership roles and longterm commitments demonstrate dedication and impact."
Students should also consider how their extracurriculars align with their academic interests and future goals. "Connecting your activities to your intended field of study can strengthen your application," Bennett notes.
LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION
Strong letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, and mentors can bolster an application. These letters provide insight into a student's character, work ethic, and potential for success. "Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to your strengths and achievements," advises Rogers. "Provide them with specific examples and context to help them write compelling letters."
THE POWER OF CAMPUS VISITS AND INTERVIEWS
Visiting campuses and participating in interviews can significantly influence the admissions process. "Campus visits allow students to get a feel for the environment and culture of a college," says Wilson. "It's also an opportunity to make a positive impression on admissions officers."
Interviews, whether in-person or virtual, offer a chance to personalize the application and demonstrate genuine interest in the institution. "Prepare thoughtful questions and be ready to discuss why you're a good fit for the college," Bennett recommends.
FINANCIAL AID AND SCHOLARSHIPS
Navigating financial aid and scholarship opportunities is a critical aspect of the college admissions process. "Apply for financial aid early and research scholarship options," advises Rogers. "Many schools offer meritbased scholarships that don't require separate applications." Understanding the cost of attendance and available financial aid packages can help students and families make informed decisions. "Don't rule out a college based on the sticker price alone," Wilson emphasizes. "Many institutions provide substantial financial aid to make education accessible."
COPING WITH REJECTIONS AND WAITLISTS
Rejections and waitlist notifications are part of the admissions journey. "It's important to remember that college admissions are highly competitive, and a rejection is not a reflection of your worth or abilities," Bennett reminds students. "Have a balanced list of reach, match, and safety schools to ensure you have multiple options." For those placed on waitlists, it's crucial to express continued
interest in the institution. "Follow the college's instructions and provide any additional information that might strengthen your application," Rogers advises.
EMBRACING THE NEXT CHAPTER
Ultimately, the college admissions process is a steppingstone to the next chapter of a student's academic and personal journey. "Stay true to yourself and focus on finding a college that aligns with your values and goals," Wilson encourages. "The right fit is more important than the prestige of the institution."
As high school seniors embark on this transformative journey, armed with insights and advice from experts, they can navigate the college admissions maze with confidence and clarity. The path to higher education is filled with opportunities for growth, discovery, and achievement, setting the stage for a bright and promising future.
PAUL'S LOCK & SAFE
A Storied History
Nestled in Newport, Rhode Island, the Coristine family has built a formidable reputation in the locksmith industry. Their legacy stretches back to the postWorld War II era when Paul Coristine’s grandfather opened a general store on Spring Street. A persuasive salesman convinced Paul’s grandfather to purchase a key-cutting machine, and despite initial reservations from his grandmother about the cost, this investment marked the beginning of the family’s journey into locksmithing.
From General Store to Specialized Locksmithing
The general store, which sold a variety of everyday items from mop heads to mousetraps, slowly transitioned into a specialized locksmith shop. Paul’s grandfather’s knack for fixing locks and making keys paved the way for the store’s new direction. His sons, including Paul’s father and uncles, were all involved in the business from a young age. Among them, Uncle Kenney (Edward Coristine) eventually took over the locksmith shop, maintaining
the family tradition until he retired and sold the business to its current owners.
Paul’s Journey
principal locksmith. With an eye focused on retiring at some time in the future, Paul has taken a younger journeyman under his wing and is passing on his professional knowledge. His hope is to retain the legacy of a small business providing craftmanship in a rapidly changing world.
Specialization
and Services
Today, the past often connects with the present, particularly on those rare occasions when Paul encounters a lock with the tell-tale signs of the work of his mentors, perhaps, for example, a distinctive way of performing a repair. A satisfying reminder of Paul’s family history.
Currently, Paul’s expertise extends beyond conventional locksmithing. His specialty is, unsurprisingly, refurbishing antique locks. He has a unique ability to create antique-style keys from scratch, utilizing welding, brazing, and fabricating techniques. He enjoys the challenge of repairing old locks and enabling them to provide decades more reliable service. This niche skill has garnered him a national reputation, with clients sending locks from all over the country for repair or restoration.
"HE HAS A UNIQUE ABILITY TO CREATE ANTIQUE-STYLE KEYS FROM SCRATCH, UTILIZING WELDING, BRAZING, AND FABRICATING TECHNIQUES."
Paul Coristine’s own path into the locksmith profession started during his junior high school days. After school, Paul would head to the shop where his grandfather assigned him a variety of tasks, including cutting keys. This early exposure left a lasting impression on him.
After graduating from Rogers High School, Paul joined the US Air Force and served four years as an Avionics Technician before being honorably discharged. By this time, Paul’s father had established himself as a locksmith in California, and Paul joined him in the land of sunshine and fair weather. However, Newport remained “home” to Paul, so he eventually returned to the Spring Street shop and worked for Uncle Kenny until he retired. The little jampacked shop was sold to another enterprising family that manages the lock shop to this day.
The Birth of Paul’s Lock and Safe
After spending a few years working for other local locksmiths, Paul decided to strike out on his own. He opened Paul’s Lock and Safe in 1991. Ironically, Coristine Locksmiths no longer has any Coristines working there, but Paul’s Lock and Safe does, with Paul himself being the
In addition, Paul is a certified technician for GSA container safes, which qualifies him to work on safes for the U.S. government, local defense contractors, and the Naval Station Newport. He has, however, chosen to step away from automotive locksmithing, finding the complexities of electronic security systems less appealing.
Commitment to Customers
Despite the demands of his business, Paul prioritizes local and established customers to maintain his strong relationships. While he no longer does night calls, he responds to emergency requests from longterm clients.
Paul’s Lock and Safe demonstrates Paul’s dedication to the craft and his family’s legacy. His journey from a young boy learning the ropes in his grandfather’s shop to a seasoned locksmith and restoration specialist with his own successful business is a remarkable story. Paul’s commitment and unique expertise will ensure his business remains a vital part of Newport’s community.
RESTAURANTS OF RHODE ISLAND
Your go-to guide for the best restaurants in Rhode Island. From warm comfort food to healthy alternatives, there is so much to choose from. Whether fresh catches from the sea or a brand new hot spot, you can find it all in Rhode Island.
CROW'S NEST - WARWICK
Address: 288 Arnolds Neck Rd, Warwick, RI 02886
Phone: (401) 732-6575
THE SHANTY
Address: 3854 Post Rd, Warwick, RI 02886
Phone: (401) 884-7008
BLU ON THE WATER
Address: 20 Water St, East Greenwich, RI 02818
Phone: (401) 885-3700
WATER STREET KITCHEN AND BAR
Address: 28 Water St, East Greenwich, RI 02818
Phone: (401) 398-0202
PROVIDENCE OYSTER BAREAST GREENWICH
Address: 5707 Post Rd, East Greenwich, RI 02818
Phone: (401) 715-2526
TAVERN
101 N Main St
Providence Seafood, Steakhouses,
BESOS
TAPAS & WINE BAR
Address: 378 Main St, East Greenwich, RI 02818
Phone: (401) 398-8855
CORK AND RYE
Address: 255 Lambert Lind Hwy, Warwick, RI 02886
Phone: (401) 921-8324
CHAPEL GRILLE
Address: 3000 Chapel View Blvd, Cranston, RI 02920
Phone: (401) 944-4900
CARA
Address: 117 Memorial Blvd, Newport, RI 02840
Phone: (401) 847-2244
POMODORO
Address: 271 Wood St, Bristol, RI 02809
Phone: (401) 396-9699
COAST
AT OCEAN HOUSE
Address: One Bluff Avenue, Westerly, RI 02891
Phone: (401) 433-3479
THE LAWN TERRACE
Address: 590 Ocean Avenue, Newport, RI 02840
Phone: (401) 849-3885
WATERMAN GRILLE
Address: 4 Richmond Square, Providence, RI 02906
Phone: (401) 521-9229
THE GRILL AT FORTY 1 NORTH
Address: 351 Thames Street, Newport, RI 02840
Phone: (401) 846-8012
PALMER RIVER GRILLE
Address: 382 Market St, Warren, RI 02885
Phone: (401) 903-2226
NAVIGATING WEDDING PLANNING
A Timeline for the Perfect
Rhode Island Wedding
Planninga wedding can be one of the most exciting yet overwhelming experiences for any couple. With so many details to consider, it’s easy to feel lost in the process. To help you stay organized and stress-free, we’ve put together a comprehensive wedding planning timeline tailored to couples getting married in Rhode Island. From selecting the perfect venue to sending out thank you notes, this timeline will ensure that your journey to the big day is smooth and enjoyable.
12
Months Before the Wedding: Begin the Journey
1. Announce Your Engagement
• Share your joyous news with family and friends. Consider hosting an engagement party to celebrate.
2. Set a Budget
• Determine how much you can spend on your wedding. Discuss contributions from family members and allocate funds to different aspects of the wedding.
3. Choose a Date and Venue
• Decide on a wedding date and start researching venues in Rhode Island. Consider the type of wedding you want—beachfront, historic mansion, or rustic barn—and book your venue early.
4. Hire a Wedding Planner
• If your budget allows, consider hiring a wedding planner who knows the Rhode Island wedding scene well. They can help you with vendor recommendations and logistics.
9 -11
Months Before the Wedding: Laying the Foundation
1. Select Your Bridal Party
• Choose your bridesmaids, groomsmen, flower girls, and ring bearers. Share the news with them in a special way.
2. Start Shopping for Attire
• Begin looking for your wedding dress, groom’s suit, and attire for the bridal party. Schedule fittings to ensure everything fits perfectly.
3. Book Key Vendors
• Secure your photographer, videographer, caterer, florist, and musicians or DJ. Rhode Island is home to many talented vendors, so book them well in advance to ensure availability.
4. Create a Wedding Website
• Set up a wedding website to keep your guests informed about the details of your big day, including accommodations, travel, and the schedule of events.
6 -8
Months Before the Wedding: Getting Into the Details
1. Send Save-the-Dates
• Send out save-the-date cards to your guest list. This is particularly important if you have many out-of-town guests.
2. Plan the Ceremony
• Decide on the order of events, choose readings, and select your officiant. If you’re having a religious ceremony, meet with your officiant to discuss the service.
3. Hire Transportation
• Arrange for transportation for the bridal party and guests if needed. Consider classic cars, limousines, or even trolleys for a unique Rhode Island touch.
4. Register for Gifts
• Set up your wedding registries at your favorite stores. Include a range of price points to accommodate all your guests.
SHARE YOUR JOYOUS NEWS WITH FAMILY & FRIENDS.
CONSIDER HOSTING AN ENGAGEMENT PARTY TO CELEBRATE.
4-5
Months Before the Wedding: Finalizing the Essentials
1. Book Accommodations
• Reserve a block of hotel rooms for out-oftown guests. Rhode Island offers a variety of accommodations from luxury hotels to quaint bed and breakfasts.
2. Order Invitations
• Choose and order your wedding invitations. Be sure to proofread all the details carefully before printing.
3. Plan the Honeymoon
• Decide on your honeymoon destination and book your travel arrangements. Make sure your passports are up-to-date if you’re traveling internationally.
4. Meet with Vendors
• Confirm details with your vendors. Discuss the menu with your caterer, finalize the playlist with your DJ, and go over the shot list with your photographer.
2-3
Months Before the Wedding: Bringing it All Together
1. Mail Invitations
• Send out your wedding invitations and include RSVP instructions. Track responses as they come in.
2. Plan the Rehearsal Dinner
• Choose a location and plan the menu for your rehearsal dinner. This is a great opportunity for the bridal party and families to relax and get to know each other.
3. Create a Day-of Timeline
• Work with your wedding planner or coordinator to create a detailed timeline for the wedding day. Include hair and makeup schedules, ceremony timing, and reception events.
4. Purchase Wedding Bands
• Shop for and purchase your wedding bands. Don’t forget to have them engraved if you’d like a personal touch.
1Month Before the Wedding: Final Preparations
1. Confirm Details
• Reconfirm all details with your vendors. Ensure that everyone knows their roles and responsibilities.
2. Obtain Marriage License
• Apply for your marriage license at your local Rhode Island city or town hall. Make sure you have all the necessary documents.
3. Schedule Final Fittings
• Have your final dress and suit fittings to make any last-minute adjustments.
4. Create Seating Chart
• Finalize your guest list and create a seating chart for the reception. Print or order place cards if necessary.
1-2
Weeks Before the Wedding: The Final Countdown
1. Pack for the Honeymoon
• Start packing for your honeymoon. Ensure you have all travel documents, clothing, and essentials ready.
2. Delegate Tasks
• Assign tasks to trusted friends or family members to handle on the day of the wedding. This might include overseeing the guest book, managing gifts, or coordinating transportation.
3. Prepare Payments and Tips
• Organize final payments and tips for vendors. Place them in labeled envelopes to be distributed on the wedding day.
4. Relax and Rehearse
• Attend your rehearsal and rehearsal dinner. Take this time to relax and enjoy the company of your loved ones.
The Wedding Day: Enjoy Every Moment
1. Stay Calm and Have Fun
• Your planning has paid off, and now it’s time to enjoy your special day. Stay calm, savor every moment, and celebrate with your partner, family, and friends.
2. Follow the Timeline
• Stick to the timeline you’ve created to ensure everything runs smoothly. Trust your vendors and bridal party to handle any minor issues that arise.
3. Capture Memories
• Remember to take mental snapshots of your day. While your photographer will capture the big moments, the little details and feelings are what you’ll cherish forever.
Post-Wedding: Wrapping Up
1. Send Thank You Notes
• Within a few weeks after the wedding, send thank you notes to all your guests and vendors.
2. Preserve Your Dress
• Arrange for your wedding dress and suit to be cleaned and preserved as a keepsake.
3. Relive the Memories
• Once you receive your photos and videos, relive the memories of your special day and share them with loved ones.
By following this comprehensive timeline, you’ll be well-prepared to plan the wedding of your dreams in Rhode Island. Stay organized, enjoy the process, and look forward to a beautiful and memorable celebration.
STAY CALM, SAVOR EVERY MOMENT, AND CELEBRATE WITH YOUR PARTNER, FAMILY, & FRIENDS.
HOUSE OF THE MONTH
43 Avondale Road, Westerly| $7,500,000
This extraordinary waterfront home ensconced in beauty in Avondale is being offered for sale for the first time in many years. You will be enamored with this impressive home which was originally built in 1789 and artfully restored to perfection. Floor to ceiling glass allows for gorgeous natural light to flow throughout while featuring astounding water views. Adding to the perfection is a deep-water dock.
Located on Avondale Road, this home encompasses the true seaside coastal experience with 3 marinas to enjoy the endless beauty of magnificent yachts and boats sailing by on the Pawcatuck River to the Atlantic Ocean. Grab your boat off your own dock and off you go to dinner in Watch Hill or to Block Island Fisher Island or Montauk and beyond. The home provides three levels of well-appointed space for family and guests with five bedrooms and four- and onehalf baths, plus an office and breathtaking craftsmanship throughout. The second level has an open concept with a fabulous kitchen and French doors leading to a deck (with an awning) to enjoy barbecues while watching the boats sail by. The entire third floor is the primary suite- what a way to wake up gazing at the water and enjoy coffee on your deck. Solar energy efficiency only adds to the many amenities this gorgeous home has to offer. The gardens and flowers are exquisitely picture perfect. This is truly an extraordinary coastal retreat yet designed to be enjoyed all year round!
For more information, please contact Lori Joyal with Lila Delman.
Bristol, Rhode Island
BALANCING AFFORDABLE HOUSING & ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
A Complex Challenge in Rhode Island
By: Marisa Desautel, Desautel Browning Law
As Rhode Island grapples with a severe affordable housing crisis, recent legislative efforts highlight the tension between the need for more housing and the imperative to protect our environment. This month, we delve into the nuances of Rhode Island Senate Bill 1037A, which aims to address the state's housing shortage while raising significant environmental concerns.
The Legislative Background
The Rhode Island 2023 legislative session concluded in early July, leaving behind a mixed legacy of successes and ongoing challenges. Among the notable outcomes was the passage of several laws designed to streamline permitting processes and repurpose vacant commercial properties for residential use, all in an effort to tackle the acute shortage of low and moderate-income housing. Senate Bill 1037A is a critical part of this legislative push.
The Environmental Dilemma
One of the most striking aspects of Senate Bill 1037A, as highlighted in an article from ecoRI.org, is the removal of language that initially indicated there would be no significant negative environmental
impacts from the proposed developments. This deletion raises a fundamental question: how can the development of new housing not impact the environment? As an environmental attorney, I find this revision deeply concerning. The mere act of creating more housing invariably involves altering existing landscapes, using natural resources, and potentially disturbing ecosystems. The notion that such activities could occur without any environmental consequences seems implausible.
"RHODE ISLAND MUST STRIVE TO IMPLEMENT HOUSING SOLUTIONS THAT ARE SUSTAINABLE AND EQUITABLE."
The Balancing Act
As my colleague Clarice observed, "The mere creation of more comes from the absence of something else." Indeed, as we expand housing, we must carefully consider what we are sacrificing in terms of environmental integrity. The challenge lies in finding a balance between two equally critical needs: affordable housing and environmental preservation. Rhode Island's legislative efforts to streamline processes and repurpose commercial properties are commendable. For instance, converting vacant mills in Fall River into residential units, as Clarice notes, exemplifies an innovative use of existing structures that minimizes additional environmental impact. However, even these projects require careful oversight to ensure they are safe and environmentally sound.
The Impact of Streamlining
The goal of streamlining bureaucratic processes often translates to reduced environmental safeguards. Phrases like "streamline processes" and "cutting red tape" typically mean fewer regulatory hurdles, which can lead to less thorough environmental reviews. This trade-off is a cause for concern. Streamlining should not come at the expense of our environmental health, but rather, it should encourage efficient yet rigorous review processes that protect both people and the planet.
Moving Forward
The interplay between affordable housing and environmental protection is complex and multifaceted. It's essential that we acknowledge and address the environmental impacts of new developments rather than dismiss them. Rhode Island must strive to implement housing solutions that are sustainable and equitable. As we move forward, it is crucial for lawmakers, developers, and the community to engage in open dialogue and collaborative problem-solving. Public input is invaluable in this process. We invite our readers and listeners to share their thoughts and suggestions. How can we achieve a balance that meets both our housing needs and environmental responsibilities?
Get Involved
We encourage you to join the conversation. Follow Desautel Browning Law on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for updates and insights. Watch our videos on YouTube, and email us your ideas and feedback on our contact form. Together, we can work towards solutions that benefit all Rhode Islanders.
Balancing affordable housing and environmental protection is no easy feat, but with thoughtful consideration and collective effort, we can pave the way for a sustainable future. Let's keep the dialogue going and strive for a Rhode Island that offers both a home and a healthy environment for all.
Brought to you by the Discover Rhode Island Environmental Law Experts, Desautel/ Browning Law on Bellevue Avenue in Newport. Find them at desautelbrowning.com
REAL ESTATE AGENCY DIRECTORY
Berkshire Hathaway Commonwealth RE East Greenwich, RI
Capstone Properties Providence, RI
Century 21 Stachurski Agency Pawtucket, RI
Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage East Greenwich, RI
Gustave White Sotheby's International 37 Bellevue Avenue Newport, RI 02840 GustaveWhite.com (401) 849-3000
H.D. Randall Realtors Wakefield, RI
Hogan Associates Real Estate Middletown, RI
Island Realty Jamestown, RI
Keller Williams Central Cranston, RI
Kirby Properties LLC Newport, RI
Lila Delman Real Estate 41 Ocean Road Narragansett, RI 02882 LilaDelman.com (401) 789-6666
Mansions & Manors Jamestown, RI
Mott & Chace Sotheby's International 210 County Road Barrington, RI 02806 mottandchace.com (401) 245-3050
R. D. Denelle & Co., Inc. Wakefield, RI
Randall Realtors North Kingstown, RI
Re/Max Town & Country Cumberland, RI
Remax Professionals East Greenwich, RI
Residential Properties LTD Barrington, RI
Silva Thomas Martland & Offenberg Ltd Middletown, RI
The Sharon Steele Group Providence, RI
Vanderbilt International Properties Ltd Newport, RI
Residential Properties 140 Wickenden St Providence, RI 02903 ResidentialProperties.com (401) 274-6740
Residential Properties East Greenwich, RI
William Raveis Chapman Enstone Newport, RI
Churchill & Banks Companies LLC Providence, RI
