Quonset Business Park, located in North Kingstown, R.I., is consistently ranked among the nation’s top business parks. Home to 252 companies and more than 14,800 jobs, Quonset is the region’s leading engine for economic development and job growth.

Quonset’s world-class transportation is a key element of our continued success, offering convenient access to an airport, seaport, railway network and several interstate highways. In 2024, Quonset broke several transportation records that signal continued growth and success at companies across the business park.

The Port of Davisville
Quonset’s Port of Davisville is one of top 10 auto importers in North America and serves as a key offshore wind hub throughout the North Atlantic.

Last year, 382 ships called on Davisville – over 120 more than in 2023 and over 170 more than in 2022. Among those ships were 253 roll-on/roll-off cargo ships, which delivered more than 275,000 cars from 15 auto manufacturers. This is the largest number of automobiles we’ve imported since 2019 and represents significant progress in returning to our pre-pandemic numbers.

Offshore wind vehicle traffic was another exciting milestone in 2024. Last year, 116 offshore wind vessels called on Davisville, more than doubling the total traffic from 2023. This significant increase reflects the return on investment for the strategic investments we are continuing to make at the Port of  Davisville. The recent implementation of key infrastructure upgrades has positioned Quonset to expand its capability to support offshore wind development projects throughout the Northeast.

Seaview Railroad
When it comes to hauling freight, Quonset’s rail operator, Seaview Railroad, provides a crucial service to companies in the Business Park by transporting cars, lumber, plastics, pellets and much more.

Seaview Railroad has broken its annual record for the second year in a row, hauling 7,976 railcars in 2024. Moving the freight by rail kept nearly 32,000 semi-trailer trucks off local roads and highways throughout the year. Seaview’s freight delivery service is a cost-effective, convenient and green option for moving goods and materials throughout Quonset and beyond.

This latest rail record is yet another signal of the rising momentum at Quonset. Across the Business Park, companies are receiving more raw materials, sending out more finished product and increasing their overall capacity and output.

Our success would not be possible without the support of our partners in government and the private sector. Quonset’s continued record-breaking growth is a window into what is possible for Rhode Island when we come together. My team and I look forward to further success in 2025.

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