Leaders push Interlink area development

WARWICK, R.I. (WPRI) - The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation is hoping to capitalize on the expanded Interlink commuter rail center with a new redevelopment plan around T.F. Green Airport in Warwick.

Tuesday, Warwick's mayor, city planners, and Gov. Lincoln Chafee, hosted various "site selectors" for a walking tour of the area around the Interlink facility, to sell the area. Right now, there are some unoccupied spaces around the Interlink buildings, and the airport. The EDC and the city of Warwick are unveiling a master plan to redevelop the land -- with the hope of attracting hotel developers and other associated businesses.

"We're looking at a true mixed-use development in and around this district -- transforming what was a 19th-century land base into a 21st-century transit center," said Warwick's planning director, William DePasquale.

The selling points at Tuesday's pitch session: low cost, high quality of life, and a variety of travel options.

Whether you pick air, rail, car or bus, "You can be anywhere from Washington to Boston within an hour and a half," said Mayor Scott Avedisian.

The feedback was positive, local leaders said. "They'll have conventions and meetings and support the hospitality industry," said DePasquale, both in the city and around the state.

The goal is to fill the developments within fifteen years.