INTERLINK PROJECT RECOGNIZED WITH NATIONAL TRANSPORTATION AWARD
Rhode Island Airport Corporation, Rhode Island Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration Commended for Innovation Efforts to Further Multi-Modalism
June 7, 2011 – Rhode Island’s InterLink transportation hub is the recipient of the America’s Transportation Award in the Innovative Management Category. This regional transportation award is sponsored by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, AAA and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. The project is being praised for its forward thinking approaches to transportation connections.
“We are proud to be recognized for our collaborative efforts to bring the InterLink transportation hub online. The connection across the various modes of transportation gives commuters and travelers more convenient options, and in addition, has a positive environmental impact to both the local and state roadways,” said Kevin A. Dillon, President and CEO of the Rhode Island Airport Corporation.
Designed for its ease of travel, the $267 million InterLink transportation hub connects MBTA commuter rail service, intercity bus service, a consolidated rental car facility, and a 1,200 foot enclosed skywalk to T. F. Green Airport. It is just minutes away from the capital city of Providence, Rhode Island. The InterLink, formerly known as the Intermodal Facility, opened on October 27, 2010, and commuter rail service commenced in December 2010. When Wickford Junction opens in 2012, train service will extend to North Kingstown, Rhode Island, and the number and frequency of train trips will increase.
“We are honored to receive this award along with our partners at the Rhode Island Airport Corporation,” RIDOT Director Michael P. Lewis said. “Bringing this project together was truly a team effort, and this facility will be a key asset in our State’s economic recovery.”
A regional award winner, the InterLink will now be judged against nine other outstanding transportation projects, all eligible for national awards.
