Probably a little of both, toonoc - the state's flat broke and desperate anyway and not likely to do anything right now that doesn't promise to generate some return revenue to help get 'em outta the weeds.
And if you've been keeping your eyes open the last few years as you crossed the new Jamestown Bridge you've probably also noticed those pricey waterview/waterfront bungalows going up on the Saunderstown shore...so that's the other part of the equation.
See, when I cross the new bridge now I can actually enjoy the scenery and make observations like that - as opposed to driving on the old bridge and being sure the windows in the Jeep are open while I drive with one hand on the door handle.
I dunno, maybe at the very least they'll do the artificial reef thing with the steelwork - that'd be a start anyway - I didn't get a chance to proofread the ProJo this morning - I'll have to see the article.