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WPRO News and the Associated Press
NEWPORT, R.I. (AP) – The controversial plan to build a welcome center on the grounds of the historic Breakers mansion in Newport has passed another hurdle from the city planning board.
The Newport Daily News reports the board found the plan by the Preservation Society of Newport County was consistent with city’s Comprehensive Land Use Plan. It will now go to the zoning board for approval of a special use permit.
The paper also reported that the National Park Service, which has designated The Breakers a national historic landmark, has also said it does not need to review the plan before it goes forward.
The Preservation Society of Newport County wants to build the $4.2 million visitors center.
But a neighbors group and some preservationists say the plan will detract from The Breakers’ landscape.
