McKee seeks $1.3M for businesses impacted by Washington Bridge closure

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Small businesses ailing from the Washington Bridge closure could be in line for some much-needed aid.

Governor Dan McKee filed an amendment to his 2025 proposed budget on Monday to provide $1.3 million to businesses impacted by the reconstruction.

“I know what it’s like to run a small business and be confronted with challenges,” McKee said in a statement. “We must all get behind the businesses impacted by the Washington Bridge to ensure their continued success for many years to come.”

The amendment would redirect $1.3 million in State Fiscal Recovery Funds to assist businesses in the form of direct grants or other business supports determined by the local community.

The Governor’s Office said $600,000 of those funds would be allocated to the City of East Providence, and $400,000 to the City of Providence.

$300,000 will be directed to the Executive Office of Commerce as a contingency fund for any significantly impacted businesses outside of East Providence and Providence.

Any excess funds could be redistributed to Providence and East Providence, per officials.