Providence, RI – In a decision that local lawmakers and residents are calling a victory, a Providence marine propane terminal at the heart of a contentious zoning dispute has been told that their expansion plans will not go through as easily as anticipated. The facility in question has been operated by Sea 3 since 2018, after taking over premises that have housed propane storage since 1975.
Majority Leader Pedro Espinal, representing the South Providence neighborhood where the terminal is located, praised the ruling as a significant win for the community. Espinal highlighted the long history of pollution in the area and its impact on the health of local residents, asserting that the decision sends a strong message against prioritizing profit over people’s safety.
In January 2022, the city enforced a comprehensive ban on the bulk storage of liquid propane gas. Despite this, in 2021, Sea 3 proposed an expansion that included six new storage tanks and introducing rail service delivery. In response to these plans, the City Plan Commission initially approved the expansion in 2022.
However, the $15 million to $20 million project drew considerable opposition from environmental groups and local residents. Critics argued that the expansion would lead to increased transportation of fuel through residential areas, more diesel emissions, and a rise in propane usage. Faced with these concerns, further approvals are still required, and the City Council has noted that recommended changes during this process could completely stop Sea 3’s expansion plans.
The new ordinance also restricts Sea 3 from any future expansion initiatives. In challenging this decision, Sea 3 filed a lawsuit claiming status as an “aggrieved party,” maintaining that their operation was lawful prior to the zoning changes. However, Judge Lanphear upheld the City’s position, indicating that the ordinance aligned well with the city’s 2014 Comprehensive Plan and dismissing the company’s claims of unfair property seizure.
Nicholas Hemond, an attorney representing Sea 3, expressed respect for the judge’s decision but indicated plans to appeal. Hemond raised concerns about the potential risks to regional fuel supplies, emphasizing the critical role of propane, especially in heating homes during extreme winter conditions.
Despite these concerns, city officials maintain that the amended zoning ordinance is crucial for protecting public health and safety, particularly in communities historically affected by pollution and associated health issues.
This intense legal and community debate underscores the challenges and complexities involved in balancing industrial activity with residential welfare and environmental sustainability in urban settings. As this case progresses, it may set important precedents for how cities manage similar conflicts between economic interests and community health.
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