Federal judge voids Johnston’s land seizure under eminent domain

U.S. District Court Judge Melissa DuBose on Tuesday ruled Johnston's attempt to seize land for a new town hall and public safety complex violated constitutional requirements, handing a victory to developers planning a 252-unit affordable housing project.

By: Nolan Page, Christopher Shea

Outlets: Rhode Island Current

Published: July 28, 2026

Words: 622

Last Updated: 5 days, 19 hours ago

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A Providence federal judge on Tuesday invalidated the town of Johnston’s attempt last year to seize 31 acres of land by eminent domain from a family-owned homebuilding company in order to build a new public safety complex and town hall.

Rhode Island U.S. District Judge Melissa R. DuBose ruled that the town failed to meet basic constitutional requirements when it sought to take over the site of a planned 252-unit affordable housing complex on George …

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