The "Open a Sonic in Rhode Island!" Facebook page, with more than 5,000 likes, finally got its wish: The drive-in restaurant chain will be expanding its franchise to Rhode Island.

Sonic announced on Thursday that it is looking to expand its franchise presence in the Northeast. About 25 to 25 locations are expected to open in Rhode Island, the company stated in a press release.

The company said the first Rhode Island location will open to the Providence market in mid-2015. Sonic plans to open more drive-ins across the state and in other Northeast areas in the next few years. These drive-in restaurants in Rhode Island will be adapted toward the Northeast climate and will feature a year-round, indoor dining area, the company said.

Sonic has 3,500 drive-in locations in 44 states. Rhode Island will be the chain's 45th state.