History of the Block Island Tunnel Project
It's Been A Long Time Coming
The Block Island Tunnel Project has a long and convoluted history, stretching back over several decades. The earliest discussions about building a tunnel linking Block Island to the mainland of Rhode Island began in the mid-1990s, shortly after then-Providence Mayor Buddy Cianci made an unsuccessful bid to bring the New England Patriots football team to Rhode Island.
Cianci was known for his grandiose plans, and he saw a tunnel to Block Island as a way to boost tourism to the state and solidify his political legacy. He began discussions with then-Governor Lincoln Almond and several local businesspeople, including Robert Kraft, the owner of the New England Patriots.
Kraft initially expressed interest in financing the project, but it quickly became clear that the cost of building a tunnel to Block Island would be prohibitively expensive. The idea was shelved, and the project was largely forgotten until years later, when Cianci's political career came to an abrupt end.
In 2002, Cianci was indicted on multiple charges of corruption, and he was subsequently sentenced to prison. The Block Island Tunnel Project, which had been one of his signature initiatives, was left to languish in the years that followed. Also that year Governor Lincoln Almond, who had been a proponent of the tunnel during his time in office, retired from politics. His successor, Donald Carcieri, was not a fan of the tunnel and made it clear that the project was not a priority for his administration.
The Block Island Tunnel Project remained in hibernation for over a decade. In the intervening years, several attempts were made to revive the proposal, but none of them gained any traction. The plans remained dormant until 2018 when a new group, the Block Island Tunnel Association (BITA), emerged with a plan to revive the project. The BITA was founded by a group of local business leaders who saw the tunnel as a way to boost the island's economy.
The BITA has been working diligently to raise awareness of the project and drum up support from both the public and private sectors. They have argued that a tunnel to Block Island would bring enormous economic benefits to the state, and would be a major step forward for Rhode Island's tourism industry.
Despite their efforts, however, the project remains highly controversial. Critics argue that the cost of building a tunnel would far outweigh any potential benefits, and that it would irreparably damage the island's delicate ecosystem.
The debate over the Block Island Tunnel Project is likely to continue for years to come, as the BITA and their opponents battle it out in the court of public opinion. However, for better or worse, the dream of a tunnel linking Block Island to the mainland of Rhode Island is unlikely to die anytime soon.
The BITA is thrilled to move forward into the next phases of planning and approvals for the Vincent Cianci, Jr. Memorial Tunnel. Despite the challenges and obstacles that have been faced in the past, the company is optimistic about the future of the project and the benefits that it will bring to the people of Rhode Island and beyond. The construction of the tunnel will not only create jobs and stimulate economic growth, but it will also provide a much-needed transportation link between Block Island and the mainland, allowing for greater accessibility and ease of travel. The BITA is committed to seeing this project through to completion and honoring the legacy of Vincent Cianci Jr. in the process.
Shop Now
We also want to remind our supporters that buying our apparel is a great way to show your support for the Vincent Cianci, Jr. Memorial Tunnel project. We offer a variety of clothing items, such as t-shirts, hats, and sweatshirts, all featuring the BITA logo. By wearing our apparel, you'll not only be showing your support for the project, but you'll also be helping to spread awareness about the many benefits it will bring to Block Island and the surrounding region. Visit our website today to browse our selection and place your order. Thank you for your continued support!
Thanks for Visiting the BITA!
Thank you for taking the time to visit the Block Island Tunnel Project website and learn more about our exciting venture. We hope you will continue to follow our progress and consider supporting us by checking out our online shop. Your support helps us move closer to our goal of bringing safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible transportation to Block Island. Thank you again for your interest in the project!