A sense of autumn brings renewed excitement to the city - by Scott Avedisian

As the nights get cooler and Labor Day approaches, we are reminded that Fall is right around the corner. With this sense of autumn brings a renewed excitement to the city as school bells start ringing and everyone is getting back to their busy schedules. 

And speaking of busy, one of the biggest milestones in the history of Apponaug Village, the roundabout development, is coming to the end, ahead of schedule we might add! Kudos to everyone involved who made this possible. Taking on its new shape, the city continues moving forward with new initiatives and projects.

During the summer, we were happy to be back at Rocky Point to unveil a series of 10 newly installed pathway signs, which were designed by Leadership Rhode Island’s 2016 MUII class - Team 8, with input from the city’s Department of Tourism Culture and Development and the Warwick Planning Department. From the Saltwater Pool to the Shore Dinner Hall and the Skyliner, these signs add yet another tangible reason for people to visit and learn about Rocky Point’s historic significance. After roughly two decades since the amusement park closed the area has undergone several improvement projects allowing the visitor more opportunities to learn and explore. The remarkable determination from everyone at the city, state and national levels has paid off by providing a beautiful and safe open space for all to enjoy. 

Additionally, the Warwick Sewer Authority has successfully completed nearly $20 million in improvements to the city’s treatment facility. This significant achievement adds another layer of safeguards to the facility helping to ensure that our residents and businesses are protected should a natural disaster occur. 

Summer was a good time for local businesses, also. It was exciting to be the part of the celebration of Kay’s Ice Cream grand opening, which is the perfect addition to a summer BBQ, birthday party or neighborhood gathering. After spending more than 30 years in the ice cream business, the Leandre family is thrilled to be bringing the flavors of summer back to the City of Warwick. 

During the summer, we also officially welcomed 4Corners Coffee with a ribbon cutting ceremony. This local coffee shop, led by an all-star chef, Andrea Leonardo, features homemade pastries, bagels, and cookies, just to name a few. Last month we also welcomed another authentic restaurant, Christopher’s Landing, which brings new high quality, family-friendly dining to the waterfront in the Oakland Beach area of our city.  

Although we will miss the warm days of summer, we welcome the cooler fall season with all of its New England charm. Autumn’s charm, with the beautiful changing colors, brings families and friends closer as we huddle around the television watching football or even supporting our student athletes on the field. It’s always a special season to celebrate as we look forward to the coming holidays.

For more information about what’s going on in the city visit: http://www.visitwarwickri.com 

Scott Avedisian is the mayor of Warwick.