I-195 Commission approves design plan for Fane Tower
By: Brittany Comak
Email: BComak@abc6.com
Twitter: @BComakABC6
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) – After dozens spoke in opposition to the Fane Tower design plan, the I-195 Redevelopment Commission voted in favor of the latest design plan for the controversial building.
Dozens packed into a meeting Wednesday to hear the latest plans for the project.
The massive building will be 46 stories of mostly apartments, which will house 800-900 people. There will also be retail space.
“It is what people want and I think it is important to design for the happiness and convenience of the people who will live in the building,” said Developer Jason Fane at the meeting.
Going into the meeting, the developers were looking for three zoning waivers.
The biggest one, according to them, would allow them to build further from the street to create larger sidewalks and patio space for restaurants.
“It was always envisioned as a major statement that will create a major focal point and a major statement within the skyline of the City of Providence,” said Architect on the project Gianni Ria.
Ahead of the meeting, tradespeople rallied across from the proposed site in favor of the building, saying it will create hundreds of jobs.
“Two, three months is considered a long project, a long run,” said Justin Kelley of the Painter’s Union with District Council 11. “To be able to work for years, sustained in one place, locally, with local craftspeople, changes lives.”
Opponents to the project, who testified before the commission, called the building, which outside of Boston would be the tallest in New England, unnecessary.
“This project is way out of place,” said Daisy Schnepel of the Fox Point Neighborhood Association.
City councilors Helen Anthony and Nirva LaFortune commented as well.
“It will have a negative impact on our city scape,” said Anthony.
“If the community is saying no, then you should listen!” said LaFortune
The developers have to file their tax proposal by October 10.
WLNE-TV / ABC6 2019
