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Cordage Park, where those immigrants worked, is home to medical office buildings, and Roo Bar, a popular Zagat-rated upscale restaurant. Part of the growth vision was to attract industry to the area. Plymouth is uniquely positioned to draw traffic to the town from both directions. It can be accessed from any one of six exits along Route 3 South, or "Pilgrims Highway"; the major road between Cape Cod and Boston. It can also be accessed by scenic Route 3A, and from the west on US Route 44. The MBTA's Old Colony Commuter Rail line reaches North Plymouth, and there's talk of opening a spur at Cordage Park to jump-start an area with great mixed-use potential. While Plymouth's major industry is still tourism, the healthcare industry is a close second. The town's largest employer is Jordan Hospital, which, like Plymouth itself, is on a growth trajectory. Medical office buildings and outpatient surgical centers are being built at Cordage Park and all along the Route 3 corridor. Some are affiliated with Jordan Hospital, but just as many represent expansion of medical practices closer to Boston. These facilities fill a growing need for outpatient procedures and day surgery facilities that may also service patients from the Upper Cape. Denis Hanks, Director of the Plymouth Area Chamber of Commerce, sees a need to educate new high school graduates and existing workers for the new economy. "We need to continue to educate the workers on a number of different skills to meet the new economy and what the companies are looking for. We're providing a lot of training programs and college certificate programs to help with that and really create a stronger workforce." With the large amount of available land to develop, he sees more technology-type companies coming to the Plymouth are in the future, "looking for a low cost of doing business, a quality workforce, and looking for a place to call home." The Chamber also supports Plymouth businesses by sponsoring an annual business expo and festivals throughout the year; including the Downtown Plymouth Waterfront Festival in August, and the Barktoberfest in October. Plymouth also has its Maritime Day every summer with a Blessing of the Fleet and a Parade of Lights. The increase in population and the growing prosperity in the area have attracted the attention of many unique retailers and nationally known restaurant chains to Colony Place, filling a need along this stretch of Route 3. The largest openair retail center in southeastern Massachusetts, there's a total of 40 stores and restaurants with the potential for many more. The variety of stores includes Wal-Mart, DSW, Best Buy, GH Bass, Jos. A Bank, Talbots, Jared, Sleepy's and Ulta to name a few. Shoppers will find something for all their needs. The family restaurants at Colony Place will satisfy any mood or palate. Enjoy soup or salad at Panera, a full family dinner at Olive Garden, TGI Friday's, or just stop for coffee at Starbucks or an ice cream at Cold Stone Creamery. With many outdoor activities, sales and promotions throughout the year, Colony Place is a destination in itself. Like any parent wanting a better life for their children and descendants, no doubt the Pilgrims would be pleased with the New Plymouth. Their strong work ethic, innovative spirit, and commitment to community is alive and well 400 years later. www.TheSouthShoreMagazine.com List of Stores & Restaurants to Discover in Plymouth Aroma Tavern and Grill AutoFair Charles David Salon Colony Place Dillon and Company East Bay Grille Ernie's Restaurant New World Tavern Nix's Plymouth Plymouth Bay Winery Pilgrim Motor Sports Rio Brazilian Steakhouse RooBar Setting the Space Wood's Seafood Restaurant to Discover in Kingston La Paloma Mexican Restaurant 9