T. F. Green No More: Name Change Official At Rhode Island Airport

WARWICK, RI — Big changes are underway at Rhode Island's only major airport. After a bill formally changing the airport's name was signed into law by Gov. Dan McKee, marketing materials, signage and more are being changed to reflect the new moniker.

Formerly known as simply "T.F. Green Airport," the General Assembly recently passed a bill, signed into law by the governor, that officially changed the name to "Rhode Island T. F. Green International Airport."

The Rhode Island Airport Corporation lauded the decision, saying it was a good compromise highlighting the state as a national and international destination while celebrating the legacy of former Governor and Senator Theodore Francis Green.

"This name change can help better identify Rhode Island as a destination for all travelers and we are confident this measure will have a long term benefit to Rhode Island’s economy," said Jonathan Savage, the chair of the corporation's board of directors.

John Goodman, a spokesperson for the airport, said that the name change is already being implemented.

"We’re thrilled that the Governor has approved legislation passed by the General Assembly to update the airport’s name to 'Rhode Island T. F. Green International Airport,'" Goodman told Patch. "With this measure now signed into law, we are integrating our new geographically identifiable name into digital route marketing and other social media to help increase enplanements to benefit Rhode Island."

The airport's marketing department is working to change the airport's name in social media campaigns, onlie marketing and more, Goodman said.

The physical signage at the airport is expected "to take many months," he said, and was estimated to cost $200,000 total. No taxpayer money will be used for this effort, since the RIAC will be funding the project.

"This change sends a strong message to our airline partners that Rhode Island is serious about supporting airlines that choose to invest in Rhode Island’s travel and tourism industry," Goodman said.

Read more: T.F. Green Airport Name Change Gets Green Light