Housing is economic development: Why Quonset is investing in workforce housing - by Steven J. King

For decades, the Business Park has focused on creating opportunities for businesses to grow, invest and create good-paying jobs in Rhode Island. Today, more than 15,400 people work at Quonset across more than 260 companies, making the Business Park one of the state’s largest job creators.

But in recent years, we’ve heard a consistent message from employers across the Park: recruiting workers is only part of the challenge. Whether it’s manufacturing, marine trades, logistics, defense, healthcare or technology, companies are finding that Rhode Island’s housing shortage has become a barrier to recruitment and retention. 

Talented employees may want to work here, but many struggle to find housing that is available, attainable and reasonably close to their jobs. That reality affects individual businesses, but it also affects Rhode Island’s competitiveness.

That’s why Quonset is incorporating housing into our long-term economic development strategy.

This summer, Quonset Development Corp. announced a partnership with Moran Properties to develop 140 apartments at the Business Park. Forty percent of the units will be designated as workforce housing while additional units will be reserved to meet low- and moderate-income housing requirements. Leasing preference will be given to employees who work at Quonset, as well as workers in government, healthcare and education and others employed within the surrounding region.

Moran Properties shares our belief that workforce housing is critical to Rhode Island’s future, and we’re excited to move this project forward together.

Importantly, this development reflects Quonset’s approach to thoughtful growth. By locating new apartments within walking or short driving distance of thousands of jobs, we’re helping reduce commuting challenges while strengthening the workforce that supports Rhode Island’s economy.

Economic development is no longer just about preparing sites or building infrastructure. It’s about creating conditions that allow businesses, people and communities to succeed together. Supporting workforce housing is one more way Quonset is investing in Rhode Island’s long-term economic future.

Steven J. King, P.E. is the managing director of the Quonset Development Corp., North Kingstown, R.I.