The Port of Davisville at Quonset Point will receive $11.25 million in federal funding to improve terminal access, facilitate greater transport of large cargo, enhance security and free up land for future port expansion projects. The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration is providing the funds through the Port Infrastructure Development Program. The grant was made possible through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
The Quonset Development Corp. will use the funding for Project GUARD: Gateway Upgrades for Access, Resilience & Development. Situated in North Kingstown’s Quonset Business Park, the 235-acre Port of Davisville is Rhode Island’s sole public port. It is a major economic engine for Rhode Island and southeastern New England, with port, rail, air and ground transportation services that support more than 230 businesses and approximately 14,000 jobs.
QDC will relocate and consolidate the main port entrance gate and port operations facility to increase efficiency and improve terminal access. QDC also plans to build an 8.6-acre terminal to facilitate increased transport of offshore wind components and other large cargo. Funds will also support the new Frys Cove Road to provide access to another 19.3 acres of laydown area while creating increased coastal access for the public.
In addition to general security upgrades like new lighting and cameras, the funds may enhance port functionality and prepare for sea level rise due to climate change. This latest grant brings the total PIDP awards to QDC to $37.5 million since 2019.
Generative artificial intelligence (AI) assisted a What’sUpNewp journalist with the reporting included in this story.
