If they can find the funds, the idea of a bike and pedestrian path from Warren to Bristol makes sense (see page 1).

At about $2.35 million, it won’t be cheap. But if grant money can be found, a path running though under-utilized and (mostly) natural space would be a true amenity for those neighborhoods it abuts, and for nature lovers and active people from other parts of town. Though it is on another scale entirely, it is hard not to draw parallels between the proposed path and the East Bay Bike Path, which has been a wild success for going on 30 years now. Smaller in scale, the path could provide similar benefits to the neighborhoods and residents it serves, too.

With revenues flat and expenses mounting every year, Warren is in no position to fund this path with local money, even with Bristol sharing costs. If it is to happen, outside grant sources will be needed. We hope that part time planner Caroline Wells, the path’s champion in Warren since the beginning, can find the right organizations to help fund this worthwhile venture in mid-south Warren.

Compelling compost

Who knew that food scraps could turn into dollar signs?

While there will likely be many questions from abutters and others concerned about the impact on the environment, the idea of a composting plant in Warren’s mostly rural northeastern end is a compelling one.

Those behind the plant, environmentalist/entrepeneurs Leo xx and Nat Harris, will need to satisfy Warren residents that their plant will not bring odor, vermin or other unintended and undesirable impacts.

But assuming they can keep the public impact to a minimum (they say they can), the plan to start commercial composting at the DPW should be given serious thought.

The town could use the lease revenues, and backyard gardeners from Warren, perhaps subsidized compost for their plots?