As the signals of a thriving local economy in Narragansett, Rhode Island continue to bring optimism for the upcoming busy tourist season, businesses in South County are gearing up for the pre-summer influx. According to Joe Viele, the executive director of the Southern Rhode Island Chamber of Commerce, many businesses in the region have been preparing for months in anticipation of the busy season.
Some of these businesses have recently remodeled, renovated or opened new shops to welcome tourists. For example, O’Reilly Auto Parts has opened a store on Kingstown Road in Wakefield while Celeste (formerly Trio) completed renovations at its Narragansett location in the Pier. Tower Hill Brewing Co. has also just opened its doors to share its craft beers made on site and a wide-open taproom at 25 Village Square Drive in South County Commons in Wakefield. Guests can now bring their own food since there is no kitchen on site.
Despite this positive outlook for the upcoming tourist season, challenges remain in the hospitality industry, particularly with finding enough help to meet the demands of the busy season. The South County Tourism Council is currently advertising spring specials at various businesses and restaurants on their website (www.southcountyri.com).
