Commercial Growth

Of all the towns in Washington County, South Kingstown has experienced the most commercial growth. The problem that planners face is similar to many suburban towns: there is a demand for the convenience of commercial sprawl and industrial growth, but also to maintain elements of rural character.

Negative Impacts of Commercial Growth

• The waste from businesses such as dry-cleaners and hairdressers may enter the aquifer, threatening water quality near wells. For more information, click here.
  
• Traffic congestion is currently a large problem in South Kingstown. As commercial growth continues, traffic along route four and Old Tower Hill Road will also continue to escalate.
• A sense of "rural character" marked by open space, greenways, and low population density is a top priority for many residents of Washington County. Commercial growth detracts from the sense of place in South Kingstown