WARWICK, R.I. (WPRI) — A new cargo hub is coming to Rhode Island T.F. Green International Airport, but Warwick Mayor Frank Picozzi is concerned the expansion will bring more noise and traffic to the surrounding neighborhoods.

“Putting heavy tractor trailers on the road, maybe around the clock, just wasn’t in the city’s best interest,” Picozzi said.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recently approved an amended plan to route freight traffic onto the Airport Connector, which leads to I-95.

Picozzi has discussed the plans with the Rhode Island Airport Corporation (RIAC) for months to try and ease the burden that an expansion may put on residents.

“The cargo facility at the airport, we don’t have a say in whether they build it or not. It’s probably vital to the airport and I understand that, but I have to worry about how it impacts the quality of life in Warwick,” Picozzi explained.

Picozzi said he insisted the plans include an extension to the sound berm to protect the nearby neighborhoods from additional noise pollution, as well as infrastructure that helps keep the trucks off the city’s roads.

The airport verbally agreed, according to Picozzi, but the traffic plan was not included in those submitted to the FAA.

“It really came to a head when Governor Dan McKee brought us all into his office and it was a very unpleasant meeting,” Picozzi said. “I stood my ground. I was very insistent that we get this done and they relented and they resubmitted their plan to the FAA.”

McKee said he is glad the two parties came to a mutual agreement.

“I think that we’re aligned in a way that’s going to be good for not only the airport, but also by making sure that we’re protecting the community with certain barriers,” McKee said.

Last week, the FAA approved the amended plan. Picozzi said construction on the project has already begun. It is unclear when the project will be finished at this time.

12 News reached out RIAC for comment but has yet to hear back.

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