‘Cottage’ housing for homeless proposed in Burrillville

BURRILLVILLE, R.I. (WLNE) — Rhode Island’s housing department has proposed “cottage” housing for the homeless population to be developed on the Eleanor Slater Hospital Zambarano Unit.

According to the state, the new development could hold 30 individuals for up to a year.

“It’s about 10 units and I think the focus is families in that area which is an important piece,” said Gov. Dan McKee. “We have to offset a closure at the Cranston Street Armory.”

The armory will close as a warming station and shelter on May 15.

The state’s property committee said it could vote on the proposal as soon as Tuesday.

Some town leaders in Burrillville believe more housing would be better suited for other locations.

“I would also question the sense of a homeless facility in Burrillville which is as far out from the urban centers,” said town council president Don Fox.

He added, “You’re looking at a place where your closest supermarket is miles and miles away… None of us disagree with being able to provide resources to those in dire straits, but if they are going to allocate our taxpayer money do it in established places and areas where the need is greatest.”

Gov. McKee said the proposal is just one step in a multifaceted plan to address the homelessness crisis in Rhode Island.