It’s difficult to believe the first month of the New Year has already come and gone. Though we are still very much in the thick of winter, unbelievably we are beginning to look ahead to our springtime plans and projects in the city. 

During the last several months, Warwick has become home to many new businesses. With a heavy focus on growing our already robust economy, Warwick continues to be in high demand for those who desire to be centrally located between Providence, Boston and New York. 

Among the businesses choosing to open their doors in Warwick, the city is now home to Jackson Hewitt Tax Service, Greenwood Credit Union’s new operations center and a new Bristol County Savings Bank. In addition to the recent surge of medical and financial institutions calling Warwick home, we have also seen continued growth within our travel and tourism industries as well. 

In December, the Rhode Island Airport Corporation (RIAC) announced the addition of two new non-stop service routes. The first option will take passengers to Nashville, Tennessee and the other to Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota. Service will begin in April with promotional rates on flights as low as $69 each way. The flights will be provided by Sun Country Airlines which specializes in low fares and great customer service for their travelers. It goes without saying that every time a new route or airline is added to T.F. Green’s destination list, it further drives the city’s and the state’s economy. By providing a wide array of destinations for both leisure and business travelers, our tourism industry continues to grow and showcase Warwick on both national and international platforms. Since the completion of the 1,500 foot extension of Green’s main runway in 2017, a total of eight airlines and 23 destinations have been added to the airport’s roster. 

And for those traveling to Green, there are several new and unique dining options available. Among them, is the state’s second Sonic which officially opened its doors in December 2018. The retro drive-thru puts a vintage spin on modern-day convenience. For more than six decades, those who dine at Sonic can pull up to a classic ordering bay and have their food delivered by a carhop, via roller skates. “Service with the Speed of Sound” has been the company’s slogan since 1959, and we’re thrilled that all those who visit Warwick are now able to enjoy this old-fashioned themed eatery. 

Also coming to the city is Tavolo Wine Bar & Tuscan Grille. Known for their classic Italian fare, the newest restaurant to call Warwick home is set to open its doors in the coming weeks. With a heavy focus on fresh, innovative and local ingredients those dining at Tavolo can enjoy one of the 70 beers on tap and the meticulously curated selection of wines that have been developed by the owners to complement each item on the menu. Located directly across the street from T.F. Green, travelers looking for a convenient yet delicious dining experience will be merely a crosswalk away. 

As we head into the spring months, more exciting announcements will be coming down the pike. From welcoming new restaurants to establishing new and exciting activities for residents and visitors alike, Warwick continues to be on the move. With easy highway, railway and air access, Warwick continues to set pace as the go-to place for opening or relocating businesses, easy national and international travel, and dining options that are second-to-none. 

Joseph Solomon is the mayor of Warwick.