Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S2915

Introduced
3/4/26  

Caption

Permits Smithfield to require 2 parking spaces for each studio, one-bedroom, or two-bedroom low- or moderate-income housing unit upon the determination that limited or no local public transportation or off-street parking is available near these units.

Impact

This bill will amend Chapter 45-53 of the General Laws related to low and moderate income housing, thereby granting Smithfield increased authority to manage housing developments within its jurisdiction. The enabling of parking requirements can significantly influence housing development strategies and the availability of low-income housing in the area. This legislative measure seeks to adapt housing policies to local conditions, particularly in areas where transportation infrastructure may be lacking, hence fostering better living conditions for residents without access to alternative transport options.

Summary

Bill S2915 addresses the requirements for parking spaces in low- and moderate-income housing units within the town of Smithfield. It specifically allows the municipality to impose a requirement for two parking spaces for each studio, one-bedroom, or two-bedroom unit. This stipulation is contingent upon the determination that there is limited or no local public transportation or available off-street parking near these housing units. This regulation aims to enhance the accessibility of such housing developments by addressing potential transportation issues for residents.

Contention

Potential points of contention surrounding Bill S2915 may arise from varying perspectives on municipal authority and the implications for future housing developments. While proponents argue that this bill is necessary for ensuring residents’ access to their homes, critics may voice concerns about over-regulation and the burden of additional infrastructure requirements on builders. The requirement for specific parking spaces could potentially deter developers from investing in low and moderate income housing projects, particularly in urban areas where land use is already at a premium.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S1101

Permits Tiverton to require two parking space for each studio, one-bedroom, or two-bedroom low- or moderate-income housing units upon the determination that limited or no local public transportation or off-street parking availability near these units.

RI H6184

Permits Tiverton to require two parking space for each studio, one-bedroom, or two-bedroom low- or moderate-income housing units upon the determination that limited or no local public transportation or off-street parking availability near these units.

RI S0503

Create a process to establish a low- or moderate-income housing that exceeds sixty (60) units.

RI S0502

Specifies that low and moderate income housing exists when a city or town has adopted an inclusionary zoning ordinance requiring that all housing developments include at least fifty percent (50%) low or moderate income housing units.

RI H5957

Specifies that low and moderate income housing exists when a city or town has adopted an inclusionary zoning ordinance requiring that all housing developments include at least fifty percent (50%) low or moderate income housing units.

RI H5801

Amends several definitions relating to low- or moderate-income housing as well as the procedure for the approval of low- or moderate-income housing.

RI S1088

Amends several definitions relating to low- or moderate-income housing as well as the procedure for the approval of low- or moderate-income housing.

RI S1098

Prohibits applications filed in the town of Tiverton, for comprehensive permit projects, for low and moderate income housing, to include accessory dwelling units.

RI H6178

Prohibits applications filed in the town of Tiverton, for comprehensive permit projects, for low and moderate income housing, to include accessory dwelling units.

RI H6068

Requires municipalities to report to the RI department of housing regarding single-family low- or moderate-income housing available to rent/own. Information to be made available to the public on the department's website and emailed to interested parties.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.