Question 3 would build on Rhode Island's economic strengths

At the Quonset Business Park, we’ve seen firsthand what is possible when Rhode Island makes strategic investments in the infrastructure and programs businesses need to grow.

This election season, Question 3 on the ballot asks voters whether the state should make a $100 million investment in economic development infrastructure.

The proposed bond has two parts. First, it would allocate $55 million to site development, including land acquisition, environmental remediation, utility installation and preparation of locations for businesses. Eligible projects include $40 million in improvements at the Quonset Business Park and further development in Providence’s 195 District. The remaining $45 million would support infrastructure, facilities and projects in R.I.’s life science, ocean technology and defense manufacturing industries.

Quonset offers a window into the economic success made possible by consistent investment and a strategic vision. Since 2004, Rhode Islanders have authorized $140 million in bonds for the business park and the Port of Davisville. 

From there, Quonset has turned that public investment into 8,000 new jobs and $2.5 billion in private investment. Today, more than 260 companies employ over 15,000 people at the business park. Nearly 10,000 of those jobs are in manufacturing, representing about one-quarter of Rhode Island’s manufacturing workforce. 

A recent economic impact study conducted by Bryant University found that activity at Quonset generates $7 billion in annual economic activity and $2.2 billion in annual household income for R.I. families.

Question 3 makes it possible for us to expand on this proven success. Question 3 is about what comes next.

The next generation of R.I. employers will need pad-ready sites that make their growth not only possible – but convenient. We want to make it easy for employers to bring their business to R.I. and for existing companies to grow here. As we say at Quonset: preparation plus opportunity equals success.

Making investments now in Rhode Island’s economic future allows us to anticipate business needs and set the wheels in motion so we’re ready to support future expansion and job creation, including in the state’s fastest-growing sectors: the life sciences, the ocean economy and defense manufacturing. 

During this election season, Rhode Islanders have an opportunity to make an investment that will support new and local businesses, spur job creation and advance Rhode Island’s position as a leader in new, competitive sectors. Join us in driving R.I. forward.

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