Yesterday, the Rhode Island General Assembly passed a joint resolution creating a special legislative commission to study port development opportunities at Quonset/Davisville and the Port of Providence.  As noted in a statement issued after the resolution’s passage:

“It’s time that the State of Rhode Island takes a comprehensive look at our underutilized assets to bolster job creation and grow our economy.” – Speaker William Murphy

“This commission is an opportunity to examine the potential for economic growth through the highest and best use of our state’s waterfront.” – Senate President Teresa Paiva-Weed

“It’s imperative that we take advantage of the economic development opportunities that exist at both Quonset and Providence . . . These ports are among the closest to Europe. The proper facilities, together with the proper management, have the potential to greatly increase jobs for the citizens of Rhode Island.” – House Majority Leader Gordon Fox

“We need to look at all means available to position Rhode Island to better compete in a global marketplace as the economy rebounds. This commission will focus on one area of development – port facilities – that some see as holding the potential for sustained growth.” – Senate Majority Leader Daniel Connors

The Providence Working Waterfront Alliance applauds the General Assembly for passing this important joint resolution, and we look forward to working closely with the study commission to develop a plan to protect and grow the Ocean State’s ports.

Full statement of support below:

Providence Working Waterfront Alliance Statement Applauding the Passage of H-5084 / S-0017 a Joint Resolution Creating a Special Legislative Commission to Study Potential Economic Opportunities in the Development of Port Facilities in the State of Rhode Island

January 14, 2008

The Providence Working Waterfront Alliance applauds the General Assembly for passage of H-5084 / S-0017 a joint resolution creating a special legislative commission to study economic opportunities relating to port development in Rhode Island.

With total freight volumes in the U.S. expected to increase by 50 percent by the year 2020, international cargo container traffic expected to double, and the growth of new shipping techniques like short sea shipping, Rhode Island’s ports, including the Port of Providence, are perfectly situated to take advantage of these trends. If properly protected and promoted, Rhode Island’s ports can continue to grow and serve as an economic engine for our state by providing thousands of high paying jobs and supplying our region’s energy and raw materials needs.

We appreciate the leadership of Speaker William J. Murphy, House Majority Leader Gordon Fox, Senate President M. Teresa Paiva-Weed, and Senate Majority Leader Daniel P. Connors on this issue, and we look forward to working closely with the study commission to develop a plan to protect and grow the Ocean State’s tremendous port resources.