Update on the Proposed Quonset Sewage Sludge Processing Plant

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The proposed large-scale sewage sludge processing plant at West Davisville remains on pause, but it has not been permanently defeated. The Quonset Development Corporation previously approved a "non-binding" Letter of Intent with a private company for the project, leaving open the possibility that it could move forward in the future.

 

Since learning of the proposal, concerned residents have organized a broad grassroots effort to protect North Kingstown. Volunteers have distributed over 1,700 informational flyers to residents, written letters to the editor, news stories including TV, spoken at public meetings, built alliances with community organizations and elected officials (Helena Foulkes), testified on a moratorium on the sludge plant at the State House, expanded public awareness through Facebook,and other social media, produced and displayed numerous yard signs, and encouraged residents to become actively involved in the fight to protect our community through Operation Sludge Hammer.

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The Rhode Island General Assembly has also created a Joint Legislative Sewage Sludge Commission to study long-term statewide sewage sludge management and recommend legislation by April 1, 2027. The Commission's recommendations are expected to help shape legislation during the 2027 legislative session, making the coming year critically important for the future of the proposed Quonset project and for how Rhode Island manages sewage sludge statewide.

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Residents remain concerned because the proposed site is located near neighborhoods, schools, churches, and a sole-source aquifer. Many believe that protecting public health, drinking water, the environment, and North Kingstown's quality of life must remain the highest priority.

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The fight is not over. With the Commission's recommendations and legislative action expected next year, continued public involvement will be essential to protecting North Kingstown and ensuring that our community's voice is heard.

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Thank you for standing with us in the fight to protect North Kingstown.

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James C. Sheehan
Former Rhode Island State Senator