Recently, I joined Governor Chafee, members of our state's congressional delegation, Rhode Island Department of Transportation Director Michael Lewis and city officials in breaking ground on the $29.9 million dollar Apponaug Circulator project to improve traffic flow in Warwick's busy central village of Apponaug by creating five, new, modern roundabouts and adding 1,100 feet of new road.
The Apponaug Circulator is one of our city's major arteries, which has not been altered since the 1970s. Approximately 24,500 vehicles pass through Apponaug Village each day. The project, once completed, is expected to decrease traffic in the village center dramatically, easing congestion and delays.
This multi-faceted project includes a new boutique hotel and focused development around the new traffic patterns, which will enhance livability, improve safety and create a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood creating a vibrant marketplace for new business development.
New sidewalks and period lamp posts will be installed, giving the area an old-fashioned village feel, which is predicted to project breathe new life into the heart of Apponaug Village.
As part of the project, the Apponaug River which has existed underground through the property for over 100 years, will be "daylighted" and relocated to the north. In addition, two small ponds will be created. The river and ponds will continue to provide a connection between Little Gorton Pond and Apponaug Cove. Preservation of this parcel as open space and for passive recreation will benefit the surrounding environment and allow the public to continue to enjoy the beauty of Warwick's rivers and ponds.
The Apponaug Circulator Project will further enhance our city's economic competitiveness, and it is yet another example of how Warwick is truly the City on the Move.

Scott Avedisian is the mayor of Warwick and the chairman of the RIPTA board of directors.