Newport Comprehensive Land Use Plan - Existing Conditions | Page 156

Newport Comprehensive Land Use Plan
Newport's saltwater resources will continue to be appreciated by large numbers of people for popular recreational
activities such as swimming, boating, sport fishing, nature study, photography, and painting. How recreational
demands are balanced against commercial and economic demands will continue to be of concern to the state and to
the city. By maintaining an open dialogue between conflicting user groups and through continued educational
programs aimed at all levels, it can be expected that more and more people will accept conscientious, cooperative
roles in the future management of valuable saltwater resources in Newport and throughout the state. This will help
prevent the overuse, misuse, neglect, and contamination of saltwater wetlands.

Harbor and Coastal Resources

Newport Harbor is home to a unique blend of ecological life and commercial, recreational, and water-oriented uses.
State law, through the Rhode Island Coastal Resources Management Council (CRMS), requires all coastal communities
to formulate a Harbor Management Plan (HMP). The goal of an HMP is to address permitted uses along waterfronts,
as well as the issues of water quality, safety, and management. Newport’s HMP is currently in the final stages of
being updated.
The State of Rhode Island has also created a management agency called the Coastal Resources Management Council
(CRMC). The CRMC creates different management plans for coastal municipalities and have created one for the
western portion of Aquidneck Island. The Aquidneck Island Special Area Management Plan (SAMP) formulated various
development regulations that are aimed towards making sure any new developments near the coast preserve the
natural resources that the coast has to offer.
Issues facing Newport’s harbor, and coast in general, are similar to those that Newport’s scenic views face. These
issues can be found in Chapter 14, Natural Hazards and Climate Change.

Municipal Natural Resource Protection Measures

The City of Newport has implemented multiple measures to promote and ensure the protection of its precious
natural resources. Many of these measures are included in the City’s Code of Ordinances including the Open Space
District, the Newport Tree and Open Space Commission and the Critical Area Review – Ocean Drive District.

Open Space District
The Open Space District is intended to preserve and protect the land within the district bounds by restricting the uses
that are allowed on it. The approved uses include conservation lands, bird sanctuaries, wildlife preserves, parks, and
others.
Newport Tree and Open Space Commission
This commission is composed of nine members and promotes the conservation, planting, health, and growth of trees
within the city, with a special focus on Newport’s urban forest. The Tree and Open Space Commission understand the
importance and benefits that trees can offer Newport’s citizens.
Critical Area Review
The Critical Area Review – Ocean Drive District measure within the City Zoning Code is designed to protect the unique
natural resources located within the Ocean Drive neighborhood, which include the scenic Ocean Drive, two state
parks, and multiple city run parks. This area contains the Newport’s greatest amount of Natural Resources.
The intent of critical area review committee is to fost