Scott Avedisian, Mayor of Warwick

December is here, and with that comes the hustle and bustle of an incredibly busy holiday season. As the holidays creep closer, there are times when balancing all of our obligations can seem overwhelming. However, I think it is incredibly important to reflect on the year that was, and to look ahead to the promise of a New Year.

2016 was another momentous year for the city of Warwick. With many high points, multiple ongoing projects and new businesses and development continuing to thrive, year after year the City continues to set a high bar for success. From the Apponaug Circulator project, development at City Centre Warwick, and more improvements at Rocky Point and T.F. Green, Warwick continues to boom.

In August, Warwick reached another milestone. WalletHub ranked Warwick the 28^th best run city in the U.S. Additionally, Warwick was also named the on WalletHub’s “best” list for the city with the lowest number of violent crimes per 1,000 residents, at 1.02, which is nearly 20 times lower than Detroit, the city ranked the highest, at 19.89. In addition, 24/7 Wall Street, ranked Warwick the 45^th best city to live in America. Accolades like these are what make Warwick such a wonderful place to live, work, visit and stay.

This year we also welcomed several new businesses to the city. From new restaurants, to clothing stores and jewelry shops, Warwick’s small business economy brought a wide variety of commerce to the city. Additionally, this summer Warwick hosted its first ever series of Food Trucks Nights. Twelve mobile food trucks filled the parking lot at City Hall offering everything from unique grilled cheese sandwiches, to chowder and clam cakes, to vegan ice cream!  Crowds were also able to enjoy the sounds of the local bands during each event.

T.F. Green had another highly successful year. My administration, along with the Rhode Island Airport Corp. continues to work tirelessly to help bolster the local tourism industry, as well as create new jobs in the city. This summer T.F. Green welcomed Condor Airlines back for seasonal service from Frankfurt, Germany. Additionally, Sata-Azores Airlines offered seasonal service to and from Ponta Delgada. The Azores is one of the state’s most requested international destinations. These international flights have proven to be highly beneficial to residents and area travelers who want the convenience of flying non-stop, internationally, right from Rhode Island. 

The major construction in Apponaug continues to move full steam ahead. The bypass project is both on time and on budget. In November, two-way traffic was officially introduced to sections of the road, which were once only one-way traffic. While work isn’t scheduled to be completed until late next summer, many of the major components have been completed, and traffic in and around Apponaug has been improved because of it.

It goes without saying that I am incredibly proud of this city and the community of people who make it such a special place. Everyone who lives and works in Warwick knows how special of a place it is. Although every year has its own set of challenges and difficulties, our community is one of resilience and strength. I am always in awe of our residents’ compassion, their friendship, sense of community and concern for others. Their steadfastness remains unwavering, and I believe we so successful as a community because of it.

Everyone, from our business community, to veterans and active military personnel, non-profits and individuals step forward without hesitation to lend a helping hand, and expect nothing in return. This sense of community exemplifies one of the many reasons why this city continues to thrive. For that, and all of you, I am thankful.

This is an exciting time for Warwick. If you’re interested in becoming part of our success story, please contact the Warwick Planning Department or the Department of Tourism, Culture and Development.

Scott Avedisian is the mayor of Warwick.