Rhode Island's Rising Hub: T.F. Green Embarks on $64M Modernization

PROVIDENCE, RI – March 06, 2026 – As T.F. Green International Airport (PVD) solidifies its status as a critical and rapidly expanding travel hub, the Rhode Island Airport Corporation (RIAC) is launching a significant $64 million modernization of its Bruce Sundlun Terminal. Haynes Group, Inc., a commercial construction firm with offices in Providence and Massachusetts, has been awarded the contract to manage the ambitious 160,000-square-foot project, signaling a new era of investment in the state's primary gateway.

The multi-phased renovation aims to dramatically enhance the passenger experience, upgrade infrastructure, and accommodate the airport's surging traffic, all while maintaining full operations. The project represents a cornerstone of the airport's strategy to cement its reputation as a convenient, modern, and competitive alternative for regional and international travel.

A Hub on the Rise

The timing of this large-scale investment is no coincidence. T.F. Green has earned the distinction of being the fastest-growing major airport in the United States for the second consecutive year, according to U.S. Department of Transportation data comparing the nation's 75 largest airports. In the 12-month period ending in October 2025, the airport saw an 11% increase in total passengers and a 10% rise in seat capacity. In 2024, PVD welcomed over 4 million passengers, surpassing its pre-pandemic traffic levels from 2019.

This remarkable growth is fueled by a strategic expansion of routes and a growing recognition among travelers of the airport's convenience. Airlines like Breeze Airways, JetBlue, and Southwest have been instrumental, adding new nonstop destinations that connect Rhode Island to key markets. Breeze, in particular, has announced plans to serve 35 nonstop destinations from PVD, including future international routes. This expansion has positioned T.F. Green not just as a local airport, but as the fastest-growing hub in all of New England.

Travelers frequently cite PVD as a less congested and more affordable alternative to Boston's Logan International Airport, pointing to lower parking fees, shorter security lines, and quicker access from curb to gate. This reputation for efficiency and ease of use has become a major competitive advantage, which the new terminal modernization seeks to amplify.

Redefining the Passenger Journey

At the heart of the $64 million project is a passenger-centric philosophy designed to transform the travel experience from the moment a visitor enters the terminal. The comprehensive upgrades will touch nearly every major public area, including the baggage concourse, baggage claim, ticketing areas, mezzanine, and cafe spaces.

A key focus is on modern amenities and comfort. Travelers will find new soft seating and hard-wired furniture at all gates, providing convenient and accessible charging options for personal devices—a critical feature for the modern passenger. Aesthetically, the terminal is set for a major overhaul with decorative lighting, custom millwork, and high-end casework. Old carpeting will be replaced with new decorative terrazzo flooring, a durable and visually appealing upgrade partially funded by federal grants.

Perhaps the most dramatic new feature will be a 60-foot-tall water display in the terminal's triple-height atrium, designed to serve as a stunning and calming focal point. The renovation also aims to create a distinct "sense of place" by incorporating design elements that reflect local Rhode Island architecture. This effort extends to recently completed and ongoing restroom modernizations, which feature improved layouts, family care facilities, lactation rooms, and upscale finishes.

The commercial offerings are also being enhanced to better serve travelers, with new additions including the Narragansett Kitchen and Bar and a Block Island-themed seafood restaurant, further connecting the airport experience to the local culture.

Navigating a Complex Transformation

Executing a large-scale renovation within a busy, fully operational airport presents significant logistical challenges. Haynes Group, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary, has been tasked with managing this complexity. The project will be executed in multiple phases to minimize disruption to passenger flow and airport operations.

Preserving the passenger experience during construction is a stated priority for all partners involved. "Haynes is committed to delivering the highest quality construction services with an uncompromising focus on safety, while preserving the passenger experience throughout every phase of construction," said Mike Haynes, CEO and Co-Owner of Haynes, in a statement. "Together with RIAC, CHA, & ZDS, we will ensure this momentous transformation reflects the pride, progress, and opportunity that T.F. Green represents for Rhode Island."

This focus on seamless execution in a live environment is critical. The firm's experience in managing complex, multi-phased projects in occupied spaces was a key factor in its selection. The collaborative effort between the construction manager, the airport authority, and design partners will be essential to delivering the project on time and within budget without compromising the airport's core function.

Fueling Rhode Island's Economic Engine

This modernization is more than just an aesthetic upgrade; it is a strategic investment in Rhode Island's economic future. Aviation is a powerful economic driver for the state, generating an estimated $2.7 billion in annual economic impact and supporting over 19,000 jobs. The success of T.F. Green is directly linked to the health of Rhode Island's vibrant tourism industry, which a recent study found generated $8.8 billion in total economic impact.

Federal support has been crucial in enabling these improvements. The Rhode Island Airport Corporation recently secured a $10 million grant from the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) Airport Terminals Program, which was established by the landmark Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021. This funding is specifically targeted for terminal upgrades that enhance operational efficiency, improve passenger comfort, and bolster ADA accessibility.

By investing in its primary aviation gateway, Rhode Island is enhancing its regional competitiveness. A modern, efficient, and growing airport is a powerful tool for attracting new businesses, supporting existing industries, and ensuring the state remains a desirable destination for both tourists and residents. The continued investment in PVD's infrastructure is a clear signal of the state's commitment to long-term growth and prosperity.