WARWICK – Rhode Island’s commercial and general aviation airports generate $2.1 billion in economic activity each year, nearly $2 billion of which comes from T.F. Green Airport, according to study findings announced late yesterday by the R.I. Airport Corporation.
Among other highlights, the study found the facilities’ annual revenue totals $660 million, and the airports “are responsible for the employment of 23,318 professionals,” the Airport Corporation said.
The report, based on economic activity in 2005, builds on data from the state’s last economic impact study of T.F. Green and the five general aviation airports, completed in 1998, and a 2001 update that examined only T.F. Green. Its figures for total economic impact reflect direct, indirect and multiplier effects.
“Our state’s aviation system – and in particular T.F. Green Airport – is an important economic asset to our state,” said Gov. Donald L. Carcieri. “The airport increasingly contributes to earnings and jobs for the entire region and … serves to stimulate business and tourism.”
In Warwick, the study found, T.F. Green generates $167.4 million per year in economic activity, $27.3 million in earnings and 1,277 jobs. The city collects nearly $11.5 million per year in airport-related taxes and other aviation-related revenue, the report adds.
“The City of Warwick continues its efforts to balance the economic viability of T.F. Green with neighborhood concerns,” said Mayor Scott Avedisian.
Going forward, said Airport Corporation chair Dr. Kathleen Hittner, “Our main goal is to continue to evolve and enhance our offerings to preserve our position as an essential part of the region’s transportation system.”
Two such efforts are now under way at T.F. Green: the Terminal Improvement Project, which aims to improve circulation at the airport, streamline operations and expand the airport’s food and retail concessions, and the Warwick Intermodal Facility, which will give T.F. Green ready access to rail travel via a skywalk to a new train station that will also include a garage and rental-car facility.
Additional information is available at www.pvdairport.com.
