NORTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. (WPRI) — State and local leaders gathered Monday at Quonset Business Park for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate recent rail upgrades.

The upgrades include a new facility for Seaview Railroad to repair and store rail cars, a new railyard to store up to 58 rail cars, and a new connector line that provides direct access between the rail and railyard to reduce transit time.

These upgrades will enhance freight rail capacity for Seaview Railroad, according to a release, as well as capacity for business growth and job creation.

“Quonset is a strong symbol of Rhode Island’s economic momentum,” Gov. Dan McKee said. “These critical rail infrastructure upgrades will increase efficiency, support job creation, and enhance Quonset’s already thriving manufacturing hub.”

The Business Park supplies 14,000 jobs and is home to more than 200 companies, which accounts for nearly one of five manufacturing jobs in the state.

“Quonset is a critical engine of Rhode Island’s economy, and this federal funding will help create good jobs, increase productivity and attract more businesses to our state,” Rep. Seth Magaziner said.

Two of the three upgrades were jointly funded by a $4 million Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements Program grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation.

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