In Rhode Island, we’re making critical investments to create a wind energy hub at Quonset - by Dan McKee

I had the pleasure of touring the construction of infrastructure upgrades at the Port of Davisville’s Pier 1 last week. The General Assembly and my administration allocated $60 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding to the Port in 2022 to assist in the development of our state’s only public port, continuing Davisville’s evolution as a key hub for the offshore wind industry in the North Atlantic and a key economic engine in the state of Rhode Island.

The Port of Davisville supports nearly 1,700 jobs, $98.9 million in household earnings for Rhode Island families and $374.3 million in business output annually. The Port also generates $45.5 million in total state tax revenue as well as $10.5 million in local taxes. Built in 1941, Pier 1 at the Port of Davisville has increased its annual imports by 745% over the last 20 years. This project aims to extend the Pier’s life by another 50 years.

The World War II-era Pier 1 is being revitalized as part of Quonset’s $234.5 million Port of Davisville master plan. The work includes replacing thousands of wooden pilings which have been in Narragansett Bay supporting Pier 1 for over 80 years with new concrete and steel ones.

Quonset Development Corp. managing director Steven King provided a briefing on the Port’s master plan, including construction of a new multi-purpose pier at Terminal 5 and new docking space to support crew transfer vessels and support offshore vessels for offshore wind construction projects and landside improvements.

Ongoing infrastructure upgrades as part of the Port master plan will position Davisville to continue as one of the top auto importers in North America, while expanding capabilities for offshore wind.

The Port of Davisville is a jewel in the state of Rhode Island’s economy. I was encouraged to see our ARPA funds at work today, modernizing Pier 1. I am confident that our continued investment at Davisville will keep Rhode Island moving forward by upgrading the resources we already have right here in the Ocean State.

Dan McKee is the governor of Rhode Island, Providence, R.I.