Economic impact of Quonset Business Park unveiled

By: News Staff

news@abc6.com

Rhode Island State and Congressional lawmakers are proud of the Quonset Business Park, the former naval air station that now houses more than 200 businesses.

A study from Bryant University was unveiled Monday, showing the impacts of the area and on the state’s economy.

According to the study, there have been more than 21,000 jobs created; something the Governor says is making a huge impact on Rhode Islanders.

“What you see is tens of thousands of jobs, high paying, high wage family supporting jobs. here in RI,” said Governor Gina M. Raimondo.

Quonset also produced $2.85 billion in economic output, $1.26 billion in labor income, and $113.1 million in tax revenues in Rhode Island annually.

"Quonset Business Park is a major part of Rhode Island’s economy and it is a great example of how public investments can lead to greater private investment and job creation," said Governor Raimondo.

"But the success we have seen at Quonset cannot be sustained unless we have the skilled workforce to help businesses meet their growing demands. That’s why my administration launched the Real Jobs RI initiative and has been working with Electric Boat to introduce a strategic workforce plan aimed at addressing long-term hiring opportunities at Quonset. If we want to compete in the 21st century economy, we need to invest in the skills that businesses need."

The study also states that Quonset’s Port of Davisville is also one of the Top 10 auto importers in North America.

Since 2005 more than $500 million in private investment has been made at the Park.

© WLNE-TV / ABC6 2016