The signals of a strong local economy in Narragansett, Rhode Island are bringing optimism for the upcoming busy tourist season. According to Joe Viele, the executive director of the Southern Rhode Island Chamber of Commerce, businesses in South County are deep in their preparation stages as they gear up for the pre-summer tourist influx next month. Many businesses in the region have remodeled, renovated, or opened up shop in anticipation of the busy season.
For example, O’Reilly Auto Parts opened a store on Kingstown Road in Wakefield, while Celeste (formerly Trio) completed renovations at its Narragansett location in the Pier. After two years of planning, Tower Hill Brewing Co. has opened its doors to share their craft beers made on site and the wide-open taproom at 25 Village Square Drive in the South County Commons in Wakefield. They also allow guests to bring their own food since there is no kitchen on site.
In addition to new businesses, the South County Tourism Council is advertising spring specials at various businesses and restaurants on their website (www.southcountyri.com). Despite the 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.