Construction has started at the South Quay Marine Terminal in Rhode Island that will serve as a key staging area for offshore wind development in the US north-east.
State governor Dan McKee (pictured) and other officials broke ground at a ceremony to launch Phase 1 of the site, which is located along the Providence River close to Providence Harbour.
South Quay is envisioned to become a “central hub” for renewable development in waters off the north-eastern US coastline, situated within 75 nautical miles of the Massachusetts and New York wind lease areas.
It is being developed with $35m funding through the American Rescue Plan.
Governor McKee said: “Rhode Island is a leader in offshore wind and this critical investment continues to ensure that our state remains at the centre of this key industry.
“I’m grateful to our Congressional delegation who made sure Rhode Island received our fair share of ARPA dollars and to the General Assembly for passing this proposal.
“Together, we will not only redevelop this land into a state-of-the-art port but we will also create good paying jobs in the process.”
Phase 1 of the facility includes construction of 525-foot berth suitable for offshore installation vessels and a 10-acre laydown area to be used for component storage.