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By MICHAEL SOUZA
NARRAGANSETT – Gilbane Corporation’s Phase II of the Pier Marketplace project and construction of 30 affordable housing units has been torpedoed by the lack of available parking.
The news was delivered by Robert Gagliardi, Gilbane’s director of property management, at Monday’s town council meeting. It was not well-received. “This is what the people were afraid about. It was part of the whole package. It was part of what the town was to get back,” said Councilwoman Krista Garrett. “What you’re saying is that Phase II isn’t happening?” Both Garrett and Councilman James Durkin were visibly taken aback by the news. “I don’t like the sound of that at all. I find it concerning,” Durkin said. Gagliardi ironically cited parking difficulties and economic feasibility as the reasons why Gilbane does not wish to pursue the affordable housing construction. He also said Phase II of the project will take place but will consist of minor renovations to the remaining three, smaller commercial buildings. Council members said they believed that in exchange for assisting the company with the development of the Pier Marketplace, the town would benefit by the addition of 30 affordable housing units. Turning to Town Solicitor Mark McSally, council members requested advice on the written agreement. McSally said Gilbane might have some leeway in its obligation to provide the affordable housing units. A work session will be scheduled between Gilbane and the council in the near future to discuss the issue. The Gilbane project allowed the company to renovate 88 existing apartments into condominiums and allowed for an additional 16 units. The commercial plaza was improved with the addition of Belmont Market and the new Trio restaurant, as well as the beautification of the existing commercial buildings, all of which benefit residents of the condominiums, and the town. Now that they are in place, there is no parking room left for affordable housing. The disclosure came after a lengthy discussion about minor details, such as lighting, signage, speed bumps, traffic islands and landscaping. Councilman Christopher Wilkens itemized his numerous concerns while Gagliardi diligently took note of the problems. Gagliardi also requested last minute minor changes be approved. Council President T. Brian Handrigan said the changes would have to be placed on the next meeting’s agenda. Gilbane expects the condominiums along Ocean Road and Narragansett Avenue, and the “story” wall to be completed in mid-June. “We want to create some energy and vibrance to the entire marketplace,” Gagliardi said. Those words were soon forgotten with the revelation of the downscaled plans for Phase II.
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