Springtime is all about new beginnings and transformations, and here in Warwick we are certainly experiencing some exciting, much anticipated new beginnings and transformations. Here’s a peek at what’s springing up in Warwick. 

First on the list was the grand opening on March 7th of the Warwick Area Career and Technical Center’s Tides Restaurant.  After seventeen years of planning, the concept and expansion and opening has come to fruition. Here the culinary arts students are getting real life experiences, employment skills and hopefully will become business owners themselves one day. The restaurant will be open Wednesdays through Fridays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. until June 1st. 

Pontiac Mills, located on the Pawtuxet River, once the heart of a thriving textile complex and home to the original Fruit of the Loom brand was added to the National Register of Historic places in 1972. The front building, restored and now home to the NYLO Hotel is a perfect blend of past and the present. Today the remaining 24 buildings are slated for mixed use development and will include loft-style units with exposed brick walls and beams combined with modern conveniences, as well as a fitness center, garden areas, kayak launch, club house and many more amenities all overlooking the Pawtuxet River. Additionally, plans for a brewery, retail and office space are in the works.  

Recently we had the opportunity to visit the site of the future 125 room Hyatt Place Hotel located on Jefferson Boulevard, adjacent to the train station. We are happy to share that Warwick’s newest hotel is right on schedule for a May opening.  In addition, the Fairfield Inn by Marriott, on Post Rd. facing the airport, is also undergoing extensive renovations to its rooms, lobby, dining area, conference rooms and work out space.  In addition they are revamping their direct accessibility to TF Green Airport. The new brand and hotel renovations will launch early this summer.  

We’d also like to pre-welcome the Sandra Feinstein Gamm Theatre to Warwick which will be opening its 2018 fall season on September 6th at 1245 Jefferson Blvd.  A community celebration will take place on this day which will include a variety of food truck vendors, tours of the new building and various other surprise entertainment.  

For additional information on development projects feel free to contact the Department of Tourism, Culture and Development. 

Scott Avedisian is the mayor of Warwick.