Good morning, Warwick.

Rhode Island Kids Count released its 2025 Factbook in a ceremony on Monday at the Crowne Plaza—attended by Gov. Dan McKee and congressional leaders—to highlight threats to federal programs like SNAP and the National School Lunch Program.

The report noted that 44,951 children rely on SNAP, 75,933 participate in the lunch program, and 1,438 are enrolled in Head Start with 493 waiting for spots.

Today, the Rhode Island Department of Transportation is breaking ground on the Missing Move project at the Neon Marketplace on Division Street in Warwick as it builds ramps that let drivers travel between I-95 and Route 4 in all directions.

Sen. Jack Reed and Gov. Dan McKee attended the ceremony — the project received an $81 million federal grant, will include work on Route 403 near the Quonset Business Park, and is expected to cost $144 million and finish by spring.

State leaders held a groundbreaking ceremony on Monday for the Missing Move project that will build ramps connecting I-95 to Route 4 for Quonset Business Park—home to around 250 businesses.

Officials said the project will cut local road traffic—reducing congestion, noise and pollution while attracting new investment.

T.F. Green Airport canceled its plan to privatize passenger security screenings after a May 2nd inspection showed that improved TSA performance eliminated long lines even as passenger numbers rose.

The board considered hiring a private contractor after October delays but then withdrew its application to join the TSA—Screening Partnership Program.

Rhode Island transportation officials broke ground on May 5 for a $144 million project awarded to Manafort Bros. to build missing ramps connecting Rt.

4 and I-95—new Route 403 ramps for Quonset will finish in summer while the highway ramps will open in summer 2027.

Several basketball players with Rhode Island ties announced transfers last week, with Kelvin Odih, a four-star prospect, committing to St. John's while Tyler Cochran picked URI + Anton Bonke chose Charlotte, Ayanna Franks transferred to UMass, Raymond Espinal-Guzman headed to Stonehill, and Jack Graham opted for New Hampshire. With the transfer portal closed to new entries, teams prepare for the 2025 season + coaches and fans expect roster changes.

Eric Rueb’s column shows the top Rhode Island softball teams as the season nears its end with Division I leaders La Salle and Pilgrim, Division II standout St. Raphael, and Division III frontrunner Tiverton.

He says key games—including La Salle’s Sunday matinee and Tiverton’s Friday contest—will shape playoff chances.

Rhode Island Monthly's 2025 Top Doctors Celebration

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Audi Warwick — $75 for guests — Celebrate the outstanding physicians recognized by their peers in Rhode Island.

Modern Calligraphy for Beginners Workshop

6:00-7:30 p.m. — Cocktail Hour Essentials — Ticket required — Unleash your creativity with a fun introduction to modern calligraphy in a relaxed setting.

Red Island Marathon

6 AM — Warwick City Park — Registration required — Experience the challenge and excitement of Rhode Island's marathon races.

6th Annual Backyard Art Show

1-7 p.m. — 450 Pequot Ave, Warwick, RI — Free entry — Explore local artists showcasing unique artwork and healing jewelry in a charming backyard setting.

Understanding AI for Vision Impairments

10-11 a.m. — North Providence Mancini Center — Registration required — Explore how AI is enhancing independence for people with vision impairments.

Gaspee Days Arts & Crafts Festival

10 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Pawtuxet Park — Free entry — Experience a vibrant arts and crafts festival with local artisans, music, and delicious eats.

AMC Narragansett Spring Fling

1-4 p.m. — Goddard Memorial State Park — Free entry — Enjoy a delightful picnic with games, prizes, and outdoor camaraderie at this annual spring event.