PROVIDENCE -- During the next 30 years, Rhode Island's population will largely remain stagnant and will be an aging demographic, according to a recent report prepared by the state Division of Planning.
The report, which was released Thursday, predicts some growth between 2020 and 2035, but foresees that growth followed by the start of a period of population decline.
It looks at Rhode Island's population from 2010 to 2040.
State Planning Director Kevin Flynn said that while many factors could change the projections, the report is intended to be a resource in planning matters such as transportation, housing policies and infrastructure.
According to the report, the state's population -- which was 1,052,567 in 2010 -- will be 1,070,104 in 2040.
During that time, the report predicts, the population will climb to a high of 1,073,799 in 2035, but will then be on the decline by 2040.
A news release accompanying the report states that, "Slow population growth and an aging population will have significant impacts on jobs and economic development, the housing market, the state's healthcare system, and the finance of retirement benefits."
It predicts that Rhode Island will see a dramatic increase in its population of residents over the age of 65 while also experiencing a drop in its population of people considered to be of "working age."