Subdivisions creating new lots for single-family homes were approved on Butler Street and Hoffman Avenue/Melody Lane. Zoning changes responding to 2026 state laws, including limits on parking requirements near frequent transit stops, now go to the City Council. A draft mixed-use overlay for Broad Street, Elmwood and Wellington avenues and a commercial core near Park Avenue drew skepticism, and staff plan more outreach, including a Broad Street event. A hearing on subdivision rule changes is targeted for Nov. 10.
Cranston, R.I. — The Cranston City Plan Commission on Tuesday approved two small residential subdivisions, forwarded zoning changes responding to 2026 state legislation to the City Council, and took its first extended look at a draft overlay zone meant to reshape commercial corridors including Broad Street and Elmwood Avenue, according to the Cranston City Plan Commission’s published meeting recording.
The commission also sent split recommendations to the Zoning Board of Review on three applications. It recommended against a new house on Maplewood Avenue and in favor of a beauty salon in the Stadium neighborhood and a taller backyard fence on Herod Street. The Zoning Board makes the final decision on those applications; the commission’s recommendations are advisory…