RI Lawmakers Again Consider T.F. Green Airport Name Change

PROVIDENCE, RI — The Rhode Island Senate approved a bill that would change the name of the state's only major airport, making it more identifiable to travelers unfamiliar with the state. If signed into law, the bill would change "T.F. Green Airport" to "Rhode Island T.F. Green International Airport."

The bill was introduced by Senate Majority Leader Michael McCaffrey, who said the name change could bring more visitors to the state.

"The airport is an economic engine for Warwick and Rhode Island and this opportunity to raise the airport’s brand awareness could attract even more domestic and international travelers to the Ocean State," McCaffrey said. "More passengers means more dollars spent at Warwick and Rhode Island businesses."

Airport executives voiced their support for the name change, which they said would raise awareness while honoring the legacy of the name.

The airport was first built in 1931, then named Hillsgrove State Airport. In 1938, it was renamed "T.F.Green" in honor of Rhode Island governor and U.S. Senator Theodore Francis Green.

The airport was established in 1931 as Hillsgrove State Airport. In 1938, it was renamed T.F. Green Airport in honor of Rhode Island Governor and U.S. Senator Theodore Francis Green.

The bill now moves to the House of Representatives, where companion legislation was introduced by Speaker Pro Tempore Brian Patrick Kennedy.