PROVIDENCE – Mayor David N. Cicilline is traveling to Washington, DC today, October 13, for a face-to-face meeting with U.S. Deputy Secretary of Transportation John D. Porcari.  The Mayor will make the case for a $39 million federal stimulus grant to fund a major ProvPort expansion project that could create1000 new jobs and generate more than $120 million in annual economic activity. 

“During these challenging economic times, creating new jobs and finding innovative ways to fuel our economy is my primary focus.  This grant will not only fund important infrastructure improvements at ProvPort, it will also provide good jobs for Providence residents,” said Mayor Cicilline.  “This project can be a key to our city and region’s economic revitalization, and I am gratified that Rhode Island’s great federal delegation will be fighting for the state’s interests.”

The City of Providence is applying for a $39 million Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery Grant (TIGER) to transform the Port of Providence into a renewable, modern, highly competitive marine cargo center.  The funds will be used to purchase two barge-based container/cargo cranes, two 150-250 feet wind turbines and solar panels for multiple buildings within the Port.  The solar panels and wind turbines would generate enough electricity to operate the entire Port, as well as generate surplus electricity that could be sold to back to the electrical grid.

According to a recent cost/benefit analysis study conducted by Bryant University, the Port infrastructure improvement project would create 1000 good-paying jobs.

The project would also augment ongoing efforts to construct a looped rail system in the Port that would increase the number of rail cars using the site, improve efficiency and enhance the Port’s ability to serve more vessels and businesses.