Top Providence Journal Stories: Revolution Wind, Sinclair Boycott, and Hasbro's Future
This week's most-read stories from The Providence Journal cover significant developments in Rhode Island, including the revival of the Revolution Wind project, a potential boycott of Sinclair Broadcast Group, and the implications of Hasbro's departure from Pawtucket. These stories highlight key economic and political shifts within the region.
Revolution Wind Project Resumes After Court Ruling
Construction on the Revolution Wind project, a $5 billion offshore wind farm located 15 miles off the Rhode Island coast, has been cleared to resume. A federal judge granted a preliminary injunction, lifting a previous stop-work order issued by the Trump administration. Judge Royce C. Lamberth of the federal district court in the District of Columbia deemed the order "the height of arbitrary and capricious."
The governors of both Rhode Island and Connecticut anticipate immediate resumption of work on the project, which is currently 80% complete. Once finished, Revolution Wind is expected to generate power for 350,000 homes in both states. Ørsted, the developer, warned that further delays beyond September could jeopardize the project's recovery.
A. Ralph Mollis, North Kingstown Town Manager, emphasized the project's economic importance to his town and the surrounding area, citing the work being done at Quonset Business Park.
Union Calls for Boycott of Sinclair-Owned ABC 6 (WLNE)
The union representing employees at WLNE (ABC 6) is urging viewers, politicians, and advertisers to boycott the station. This comes after Sinclair Broadcast Group, which already owns WJAR (NBC 10), acquired the station's non-licensed assets from Standard Media Group. The union, NABET-CWA, is protesting staff layoffs, including popular meteorologist Kelly Bates and sports director Nick Coit, and a perceived lack of investment in local news programming.
The purchase gives Sinclair control of two of the three major TV stations in the Providence-New Bedford market. The union demands that Sinclair commit to providing distinct and quality local programming.
Hasbro's Move to Boston Impacts Pawtucket's Future
Hasbro's upcoming move to Boston in 2026 marks a significant symbolic blow to Pawtucket, following the closure of Memorial Hospital and the departure of the PawSox. This event raises questions about the future of the city, which was once an industrial powerhouse.
The departure of the toymaker is prompting discussions about Pawtucket's ongoing transformation from a mill town to a bedroom community, especially in light of new developments like the soccer stadium and the Pawtucket-Central Falls train station. The article explores the potential economic and psychological impact of Hasbro's exit.
Providence Housing Crisis Addressed in New Report
A report released by the Providence City Council's Housing Crisis Task Force highlights the severity of housing insecurity in the city. The task force, formed in 2023, found that nearly half of Providence renters and over a third of homeowners are housing-cost burdened, spending over 30% of their income on housing.
The 47-page report recommends short- and long-term measures to address the crisis, including potential rent stabilization policies and increased housing construction. The report involved consultations with residents, housing advocates, and legal experts to inform the recommendations.
Rhode Island's Famous TV Anchors Remembered
A retrospective look at some of Rhode Island's most memorable television journalists and personalities who have graced local screens for years. These individuals have played a crucial role in delivering news, sports, and weather updates to the community.
