Under the Rhode Island Coastal Resources Management Council's (CRMC) "Red Book,” RI shoreline waters are classified under six types/uses:

Type 1: Conservation areas

Type 2: Low-intensity use

Type 3: High-intensity boating

Type 4: Multi-purpose waters

Type 5: Recreational & Commercial harbors

Type 6: Industrial waterfronts & Commercial Navigation Channels

Conanicut Island has waters classified from Type 1 – 3.  From the Newport Pell Bridge south to Bull Point in the Dumplings, these waters are all currently classified as Type 3.  Under this classification (dating from 1983), these areas are to be prioritized for high-intensity boating and supporting activities, that include marinas, boatyards, dredging, launching ramps and other businesses that service recreational boats.  

Currently the riparian (i.e. waterfront) properties are zoned residential and these uses would not be allowed.  However, zoning can easily be changed or special use permits could be issued that would then allow these uses.

PCC is therefore working with the Riparian Property Owners to petition the town/state to re-classify these waters from Type 3 to Type 2, except waters fronting the three commercial marina/boatyard operations (Safe Harbors/Jamestown Boatyard, Clark’s Shipyard, and Conanicut Marina, as well as the Conanicut Yacht Club).

PCC is requesting this reclassification (see Image #2, below) to protect our shoreline and adjacent waters from further expansion of commercial activity, restrict dredging, and most importantly to protect and preserve the natural beauty and environment of our shoreline.