Rhode Island House Bill H7952

Rhode Island 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/22
• Refer: 3/7/22
• Report Pass: 3/31/22
• Engrossed: 4/5/22
• Refer: 4/26/22
• Report Pass: 5/17/22
• Enrolled: 5/31/22
• Passed: 6/8/22

Caption

Abandonment By Towns

Impact

Under this new legislation, towns like Coventry, North Providence, and several others are specifically noted, allowing them to sell abandoned highways or driftways directly to abutting property owners at fair market value if requested. This change may lead to a more efficient use of land, as private property owners can directly acquire land that is no longer considered useful for public roadways. It could also potentially stimulate local economic activity as land use becomes more flexible for these owners.

Summary

House Bill 7952 addresses the process and authority surrounding the abandonment of highways and driftways by towns in Rhode Island. The bill empowers town councils to declare that a highway or driftway is no longer useful to the public. Upon such a declaration, the title of the land will revert back to its original owner, relieving the town from maintenance obligations. This provision aims to simplify land management for towns while clarifying property rights for abutting landowners.

Contention

The discussions surrounding HB 7952 might include concerns over the implications for public access and how this could affect existing infrastructure. Opponents may argue that this could lead to a loss of public land that benefits the community, while proponents may focus on the positive aspects of local control and property rights. The balance between local governance and public need is a significant point of contention as towns navigate the responsibilities that come with such authority.