The Rhode Island Airport Corporation’s (RIAC) Board of Directors
voted today in a special session to approve the Memorandum of
Understanding, which was adopted last night by the Warwick City Council.
Governor Lincoln Chafee, who attended the Board meeting, was pleased to
see a positive conclusion. “Our economic development efforts in Rhode
Island are directly tied to a successful airport that is competitive. As
a former Mayor of Warwick and member of the City Council, I understand
more than most that this was not easy for the city. I applaud their
efforts and willingness to sit at the table with RIAC to come to
decisions that are in the best interest of the city of Warwick and the
State of Rhode Island. I am committed to these efforts that will create
jobs, further the economy and put us on track for success.”
Dr. Kathleen Hittner, Chair of the RIAC Board, said, “We are pleased
that the understanding, voted on last night by the Warwick City Council,
has ended months of indecision. While we recognize the Federal Aviation
Administration has the final approval, we feel confident, that we will
be able to move forward shortly with funding applications for the
important airport improvement projects included in the EIS. I would like
to personally thank the Mayor and the City Council for working with us
to make this possible and the RIAC Board and the Governor for all of
their support.”
Kevin A. Dillon, RIAC President and CEO, said, “One of my top
priorities since assuming the leadership position at RIAC, was to ensure
the appropriate infrastructure was in place to allow T. F. Green to be
competitive, while working with the city to address their concerns on
quality of life issues. I feel this understanding is a successful
culmination to a difficult process and I am thankful for all the support
from the elected leaders, the business community and labor. It was
truly a cooperative effort.”