Watch Louise Bishop Create a Trail of Tourism in South County

SouthCountyRI.com

Tell us about yourself, your connection to Rhode Island, and your work.

I was born and raised just north of Hartford, Connecticut, and spent many summers exploring and enjoying Rhode Island’s coastline. Now, I’m fortunate to call Westerly – a picturesque part of the Ocean State – my home. Professionally, my work focuses on enhancing the region’s tourism appeal while ensuring that we preserve the very essence of what makes South County and Rhode Island so special.

What’s your motivation for doing this work?

The tourism industry plays a vital role in Rhode Island’s economy as the third-largest economic driver in the state. South County, in particular, has long been known for its beautiful shoreline, drawing visitors from around the world. However, I see an opportunity to diversify and expand the region’s appeal by highlighting its rich natural and cultural assets beyond just the coast. One initiative I’m especially proud of is the introduction of the Rhode Island Troll Trail. This project, which launched last May in Charlestown, features recycled art sculptures created by internationally acclaimed artist Thomas Dambo.

In what ways do you hope to leave an impact on the Ocean State in the coming year?

Looking ahead, I hope to further enhance Rhode Island’s outdoor attractions by developing beautification plans for several key parks. This initiative aims to give visitors a more immersive experience of the state’s natural beauty. One of my most exciting projects is expanding the Atlantis Rising International Sand Sculpture Competition. This event draws master sand sculptors from around the world, and by growing its scope, we can solidify Rhode Island’s reputation as a cultural and artistic destination.

What challenges do you anticipate having to overcome to achieve these goals?

While we’ve made great progress, the primary challenge remains our timeline. These projects – such as expanding the Troll Trail and developing beautification plans – are large in scope and require careful planning and collaboration. They are not quick fixes, but I’m confident that with the right partnerships and community involvement, we will overcome these challenges.

What’s your reason for optimism approaching 2025?

As we approach 2025, my optimism is grounded in the unwavering support and enthusiasm of our tourism partners. We have received tremendous backing from local chambers of commerce, town managers, and the community. This collaboration has been crucial in driving the success of our projects and initiatives.