Smithfield Development News

Town Council Discusses Future of Overbrook Academy Property

The Town Council discussed the Overbrook Academy property located at 60 Boston Avenue, presenting its history, current condition, and potential future uses. The property encompasses approximately 43.5 acres with a main building of around 87,000 square feet, originally built in 1939-1945, and a newer library addition from approximately 2010. Historically, it has served as educational facilities, including Cabrini College and Overbrook Academy, a female private boarding school. It also has a history of institutional religious use, including a seminary and orphanage. Currently, the town has purchased the property and is exploring options for its future, including potential municipal use, leasing, or sale. The property features walking trails, a small amount of wetlands, and has been used by police and fire departments for training. An energy study is underway, and the town is exploring funding from the Rhode Island Infrastructure Bank. Various community ideas for the property's use were presented, ranging from town offices and a recreation complex to housing and educational programs. The school committee provided input, highlighting questions about financial burdens, capital investment needs, and potential uses like life skills programs or alternative learning academies. Concerns about the condition of older buildings, asbestos, heating systems, and accessibility were also raised. Discussions also touched upon the potential sale of other town properties, such as the old VFW hall, to fund development.