R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-99-2: Legislative findings.

It is hereby found that:

(1) There is a serious shortage of suitable facilities for conventions and related exhibition, meeting, banquet, and other facilities customarily incident thereto, in the state;

(2) Private enterprise alone is not able to provide the necessary facilities;

(3) The public welfare and the further economic development and the prosperity of the state requires the establishment of these facilities and the financing thereof, as provided in this chapter; and

(4) The facilities will be managed and operated with the greatest public benefit and at the least public cost if provision is made for leases, concessions, and other contracts with persons, firms, and corporations, as provided in this chapter.