The East Greenwich Greenway Plan: A Strategy for the Commons

This Greenway Plan has been prepared in response to increasing development pressure and a heightened local awareness of the need to conserve East Greenwich\u27s open spaces, protect natural resources and water supplies, increase opportunities for passive outdoor recreation, and protect the town\u27s historic rural and scenic characteristics. Changes are recommended to the Zoning Ordinance and the Development and Subdivision Review Regulations that will enhance the town\u27s ability to preserve open space, including farms and ecologically significant corridors, and to incorporate interconnected trail networks between new subdivisions. Rapid changes to the town\u27s character caused by residential growth have led to escalating public concern about the future of the community, the rising costs of community services, and the desire to preserve the town\u27s natural and cultural resources. In light of these concerns and the town\u27s recognition that protecting community resources is in everyone\u27s best interest, it is the intent of this plan to propose means to circumvent the tragedy of the commons, by developing a strategy for the commons. Through initiative and planning for the protection of the town\u27s undeveloped lands, this plan aims to ensure that future generations will benefit from and enjoy the same natural resources and scenic streetscapes residents do today