Projo Biz Blog

EAST GREENWICH, R.I. -- The prognosis for a Walgreens drug store at the corner of Main Street and First Avenue is looking grim.

The Planning Board voted 7-to-0 Wednesday night to reject a developer's master plan for the project and then voted 7-to-0 to recommend that the Town Council not change the zoning on the site.

John Stewart, project manager for Arista Development, said the company will probably decide Friday whether to push ahead in spite of the board's recommendation.

Arista was unable to overcome several concerns of Planning Board members, including the project's effect on traffic at the already-busy intersection.

Walgreens would need the zone change to include a drive-through pharmacy window at the site. But by changing the zoning designation, the company would also need 14 variances from the council.

The property includes the East Greenwich Car Wash and the now-closed Sunoco gasoline station, which is expected to reopen if the Walgreens proposal is withdrawn.

 Tags  Arista Development East Greenwich RI Walgreens

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