Nothing reminds you of the joys of interacting with the world more than being forced to spend time by yourself.

Such is a lesson that people, and developers, have taken to heart in the time since Covid restrictions have eased and fear about spreading the disease has faded into the background — thanks in large part to the availability of treatments and vaccines to curb large-scale outbreaks that framed 2020 and large parts of 2021.

Since enduring those darkest of days, when something as rudimentary as going out to the grocery store seemed to be a risky endeavor, people have flocked towards opportunities to gather once again and enjoy everything from massive live artistic performances (any Taylor Swift fan can attest to that), to small and medium sized gatherings among family and friends at backyard barbecues.

And this nationwide craving for a return to getting back together with our fellow humans isn’t just smoke and mirrors — it’s something that local developers are banking on.

A shining example locally is the new Top Golf that is rapidly approaching an opening date near Garden City in Cranston. There is no denying the potential benefits of such a complex in the area — which already attracts many thousands of shoppers and window-browsers each week to a variety of high- and lower-brow establishments selling everything from boutique baby clothing to wood-fired pizzas.

The concept driving the gamble for Top Golf and the $40 million development price it brings with it is the notion that people will be excited at the opportunity for a new kind of experience, whether that comes from the thrill of the virtual golf experience offered or any ancillary businesses and entertainment experiences that crop up to supplement that anchor tenant.

We can certainly say we’re rooting for their success, as the state and tax base surely benefits from creating more unique and attractive places to shop, play, and bring your friends to do the same.