5Q: Scott Avedisian

Warwick Mayor Scott Avedisian has released a $310.5 million budget that represents an increase in spending. PBN FILE PHOTO/MICHAEL SALERNO
Warwick Mayor Scott Avedisian has released a $310.5 million budget that represents an increase in spending. PBN FILE PHOTO/MICHAEL SALERNO

1 You recently won re-election to a 10th term as mayor, with 65 percent of the vote. Many incumbents were tossed statewide. What was the difference in Warwick?

I believe that people in the city know the policies and issues that I want to work on and to continue in the city.

2 Are local taxes driving businesses away?

Can the city afford to lower them? Businesses have been coming to Warwick in the past two years, so I do not believe that taxes are driving businesses away. We try to have small increases in the tax rate and feel that stability is what attracts many businesses to the city.

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3 What has happened in the past two years at City Centre that speaks to progress in that development?

Commercial real estate values will continue to increase, especially in City Centre.

4 Providence is adding hotel rooms. What is the status of Warwick’s hotel developments?

D’Ambra Construction is in the process of dismantling their old asphalt and concrete plant on Jefferson Boulevard to create a new flagship hotel, conference facilities and parking. Joe and Lori Piscopio continue to expand on their successful Hilton Garden Inn and Iron Works Tavern with a new hotel complex and residential development. The Crowne Plaza Providence-Warwick just received City Council approval to change the zoning to add an additional 100 rooms.

5 What are the biggest issues facing you in this term?

The biggest challenge will be to take all of the great infrastructure improvements that we have invested in – new Main Avenue, expanded airport, Apponaug circulator – and translate them into continued economic vitality. We have been successful in attracting new hotels to City Centre, along with Ocean State Theatre, Salve Regina University and others. The Pontiac Mills renovation project is also an exciting opportunity for additional residential, commercial and restaurant use. … With the expanded Warwick Mall, the recently renovated Rhode Island Mall and the successful Route 2 commercial corridor, we still lead the state in retail shopping and sales. In 2017, we will be seeking to connect all of these signature developments into a cohesive plan. … And look for an exciting announcement soon for the site of the Sam’s Club building on Route 2. •

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