DiPrete Engineering is proud to be part of the team rebuilding one of Rhode Island’s most beloved landmarks – the Matunuck Oyster Bar. Located on Succotash Road in Wakefield, the restaurant suffered a devastating fire in spring 2025, resulting in a total loss.
The reconstruction effort presented unique challenges due to the site’s location within the environmentally sensitive jurisdiction of the Coastal Resources Management Council (CRMC) Special Area Management Plan for Potter Pond. Compliance with stringent environmental and building regulations was essential, including raising the building eight feet to meet FEMA floodplain elevation requirements, adhering to RI CRMC coastal feature setbacks, and conforming to South Kingstown’s maximum building height restrictions.
DiPrete Engineering provided comprehensive surveying, civil, and environmental engineering services, collaborating closely with client Perry Raso and the design and construction team: GDS Architecture, Interiors & Branding, Jacavone Management Corporation, LLC, and Adler Pollock & Sheehan, PC. Permitting milestones included:
- RIDEM OWTS Alteration for septic system upgrades
- South Kingstown Building Official approval for FEMA elevation certification and compliance with flood elevation and height limits
- CRMC approval for site grading and stormwater management improvements
The final CRMC assent for reconstruction was secured in mid-October, paving the way for construction. DiPrete Engineering continues to support the project through surveying services and site construction administration. The foundation design incorporates drilled helical piles for load-bearing support, requiring precise stakeout of over 100 pile locations.
The firm is honored to work alongside Perry Raso and the project team to restore Matunuck Oyster Bar – a true Rhode Island icon – and ensure its resilience for years to come.
