About the Comprehensive Plan

 

Every city and town in Rhode Island is required to have a Comprehensive Community Plan. This plan serves as the community’s long-term “roadmap,” guiding decisions about land use, housing, economic development, transportation, natural and cultural resources, public services, and other important municipal functions.

 

Bristol’s Comprehensive Plan will:

• Identify community priorities for the next 10–20 years

• Guide local decision-making on development, preservation, and investment

• Align with state planning requirements to ensure consistency and eligibility for funding opportunities

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Why Update the Plan Now?​

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Rhode Island law requires each community to update its comprehensive plan every 10 years. Bristol’s current Comprehensive Plan was adopted by the Town on January 25, 2017, and was approved by the State of Rhode Island on February 2, 2017. The Town is initiating the 10-year update ahead of the February 2027 expiration of the Plan. Bristol’s update will ensure the plan reflects today’s needs, challenges, and opportunities, while preparing for the future.

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The update process officially begins in late 2025, but early engagement is already underway to gather community input before the full launch.