WPRO News and the Associated Press
NEWPORT, R.I. (AP) – Newport officials are expected to rule on a divisive proposal on whether to allow construction of a welcome center on the grounds of The Breakers national historic landmark.
The city’s zoning board of review is scheduled to release a decision on the proposal at its meeting Monday.
The Breakers was built by the Vanderbilt family during the Gilded Age. In a city known for its mansions, it is Newport’s crown jewel.
The Preservation Society of Newport County, which owns The Breakers, wants to build the center to provide better restrooms and sell food on the mansion’s grounds.
Neighbors, members of the Vanderbilt family and others have opposed the plan, saying it will detract from the historic estate, and suggesting it be built across the street in an existing parking lot.
