The provisions put forth in S2654 are significant as they clarify the procedures towns must follow when deciding to abandon public thoroughfares. The requirement for public signage and newspaper notice ensures transparency in the abandonment process, potentially fostering community engagement. By facilitating the sale of abandoned highways or driftways back to adjacent property owners at fair market value, the bill also supports economic development by allowing for the better use of land that may become surplus due to the abandonment of public access.
Summary
Bill S2654 pertains to the legal framework governing the abandonment of highways and driftways by towns in Rhode Island. The act allows a town council to declare a highway or driftway as abandoned if it is deemed no longer useful to the public. Following such a declaration, the title of the land shall revert to its original owner, relieving the town of further maintenance responsibilities for the abandoned way. This process is formalized through an order or decree that must include public notification, ensuring that affected property owners are informed about the abandonment and potential reversion of property rights.
Contention
Notably, the bill includes specific provisions for towns with populations exceeding 100,000, allowing them to expedite the sale of abandoned highways to adjacent property owners. Opponents of such measures may argue that it could encourage the abandonment of vital access routes, limiting public transportation options. However, proponents assert that this measure provides a practical solution for municipalities struggling with underutilized infrastructure, allowing for adaptive land use that aligns with community needs.
Allows for a qualified abandonment of town highways/driftways and grants a public easement over said road allowing it to be converted to a walking/hiking/biking trail as well as for access to parks, nature preserves and other recreational facilities.
Allows for a qualified abandonment of public town roads which grants a public easement over said road allowing it to be converted to walking, biking, and hiking trails and access to parks, nature preserves and other recreational facilities.
Allows for a qualified abandonment of public town roads which grants a public easement over said road allowing it to be converted to walking, biking, and hiking trails and access to parks, nature preserves and other recreational facilities.
Allows for a qualified abandonment of town highways/driftways and grants a public easement over said road allowing it to be converted to a walking/hiking/biking trail as well as for access to parks, nature preserves and other recreational facilities.
Allows for a qualified abandonment of public town roads which grants a public easement over said road allowing it to be converted to walking, biking, and hiking trails and access to parks, nature preserves and other recreational facilities.
Allows for a qualified abandonment of public town roads which grants a public easement over said road allowing it to be converted to walking, biking, and hiking trails and access to parks, nature preserves and other recreational facilities.