Andrew Augustus, WPRO News

Constriction has begun at the site of SONIC Drive-In’s first location in Rhode Island. The SONIC located at 393 Putnam Pike in Smithfield started construction Wednesday as the new franchisees, Bob and Sharon Bowen, were joined by family, friends and elected officials to mark the beginning of construction.

“Today has been very exciting. This has been two years in the making, my husband and I have worked hard, spent a lot of time being patient, and waiting for this to happen,“ said Communications Director of the SONIC Drive-In Smithfield location Sharon Bowen.

Construction is expected to be completed with a grand opening to occur in September.

The Smithfield location will have a double drive-thru and 10 “drive-in” spots with bell hop service, and space for 70 seats inside. The inside seating is a new feature for the northeast to accommodate with the weather.

“SONIC has such a following of customer that we have heard nothing but positive,” said Bowen

Once it is opened, the Smithfield location will be the first SONIC location in Rhode Island.