Statement from the Governor about the FRA’s plan for a high-speed rail line after meeting with members of the Charlestown Town Council and local legislators

«I appreciated the opportunity to meet today with Charlestown leaders to discuss
their concerns about the Federal Railroad Administration’s proposed high-speed
Northeast Corridor Rail Line. I am very pleased that Providence is included as a
major hub of the line, which promises to have a significant positive impact on the
state’s quality of life and our economy. Increasing connectivity and cutting down
travel times to New York and Boston will make it easier for businesses to grow here
in Rhode Island.

«However, I share the Charlestown community’s concerns about quality of life
implications, environmental threats and historic preservation, and until these
important issues are resolved I will not support the Rhode Island portion of the
‘Old Saybrook – Kenyon Bypass’ section of the FRA’s proposal.»