KMG Statement on MetLinks Opening

To the Reporter:

Keep Metacomet Green (KMG) congratulates developer Marshall Properties on the opening of MetLinks on June 25th. This beautifully re-designed public golf course incorporates many of the features originally designed by the iconic golf course architect Donald Ross. It will be a wonderful amenity for the people of the City of East Providence. As well, nearly half the Metacomet site will remain open and green.

We congratulate ourselves as well. KMG has led the public opposition to the development of Metacomet, beginning nearly four years ago. We called repeatedly for the site to be purchased by the City for a municipal park and public golf course. Although that initial goal was not met, we believe that our opposition over the summer of 2020 led the developer to withdraw its initial application and plan in September 2020. That plan did not include a golf course.

When the developer submitted its revised application in Spring 2021, plans included not only a deed-restricted 9-hole public course, but 9.6 acres deeded to the City as well. The opening of MetLinks is a win-win-win for Marshall Properties, the people of the City of East Providence, and the 3,023 members of Keep Metacomet Green.

There is much left for KMG to do over the coming months and years. We are working to ensure that the 60+ acres of development proposed for the remainder of the site conforms with State law, the City Comprehensive Plan, the East Providence Special Waterfront District Development Plan, and City Council zoning ordinances.

The rules and regulations of these public documents include protections for the scenic Veterans Memorial Parkway. KMG is hard at work to make sure that the Parkway is not destroyed by out-of-scale development along this iconic roadway.

For today, we take pride in what we have accomplished. We look forward to future discussions with the developer to incorporate safe walking trails within the golf course that will allow the non-paying public access to the waterfront, as is mandated in both the Comprehensive Plan and Waterfront District Plan.

Candy Seel
Co-Director and President
Keep Metacomet Green