Commission sends mixed zoning recommendations: negative on dense three‑lot plan, favorable for vehicle‑storage variance

The Cranston Planning Commission forwarded a negative recommendation to the Zoning Board on a proposal to build two new single‑family houses on undersized 3,200‑square‑foot lots at 30 Pan Am Street, concluding the proposal is inconsistent with the future‑land‑use density and neighborhood character.

Staff said the proposed density (13.61 units/acre) exceeds the future‑land‑use map target (10.89 units/acre) and that the median lot size in the Spectacle Pond neighborhood is 4,500 square feet. Commissioner Lamphere moved the negative recommendation, citing inconsistency with comp‑plan goals to stabilize existing residential neighborhoods; the motion passed.

Separately, the commission recommended a favorable zoning action for a use variance to allow motor‑vehicle storage on a lot fronting Fletcher Avenue. Staff recommended conditions including a stormwater management plan and landscaping. Applicant counsel Robert Murray said the lot is already being used for vehicle storage and that the owner would install a permanent fence and landscaping; the motion to forward a positive recommendation passed with one dissent from Commissioner Lamphere.

Both matters now proceed to the Zoning Board for final action.