Palmer Point at Sowams Should Happen

The Palmer Point project proposed for Sowams Nursery has had quite a bit of attention. I want to interject in the fray and offer a perspective I don’t think many in the opposition consider.

I speak as a resident of the Sweetbriar Community, the first affordable housing development that survived similar attacks when it was proposed. Prior to moving here, I was a homeowner in the East Bay area for more than 20 years.  I was married and had a 9-year-old son who attended a private school in Barrington. 

Approximately four years ago, I found myself in the midst of divorce, disabled due to a chronic illness, and searching for a new place to live with my son.  It’s been challenging for my family during this difficult time.  I’m grateful that this housing opportunity exists for me in a time of great need. I am an educated woman pursuing an advanced degree in public health, and planning to return to work in the near future.

Sweetbriar is a wonderful place to live.  The townhouse style apartments are beautifully designed, the property is well maintained, and there is a great community of neighbors both in Sweetbriar and the surrounding area. I think there have been many misconceptions, and assumptions about the people who live there.  We are just like any other neighborhood in Barrington comprised of professionals, families, retirees, and disabled residents.  Although my son does not attend school in Barrington currently, he likes his new friends and home.  Sweetbriar is providing a safe and healthy environment for my family's continued progress.

This experience has made me really consider why affordable housing is important for all of us. There are many people in the same situation as I am – whether because of a particular life situation, or simply because housing stock has become too expensive and the last few years of a challenging economy has impacted us all. We currently have a waiting list at Sweetbriar that includes 25 Barrington residents and current Barrington natives that already happily reside in our community.  I think that says something.

The town of Barrington is not exempt from the responsibility of having affordable housing options. There needs to be this option in every city and town throughout Rhode Island. It’s not only mandated by the state, but it’s a necessity for residents of Barrington itself.

The Palmer Point project is a well-planned design that is being managed by the same development group that built Sweetbriar. The town of Barrington should allow this project to happen. 

Carlene Lighty-Fiorito