Main streets across Rhode Island get $1.4M for improvements

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Gov. Dan McKee said that 10 projects across the state will receive a combined $1.47 million for commercial district improvements.

The governor said that the Main Street RI Streetscape Improvement Fund grants will be used to pay for safer sidewalks, new way-finding signage, upgraded building facades, and better street lighting.

The Rhode Island Commerce Corporation will use the fund to award grants to help revitalize main streets and downtown business districts.

McKee said that a second round of applications will open later in the year for additional projects.

Eligible projects  must be in areas that are walkable and attract visitors.

“Main Streets are the center of economic development in our cities and towns,” McKee said. “Making these investments are important for the success of our businesses and communities.”

The following projects received funding:

• The Black Block Community Foundation in Pawtucket received $150,000 to assist in the installation of large murals and other improvements to increase foot traffic and public art.
• The Blackstone Valley Tourism Council in Pawtucket received $25,000 to support the implementation of a new wayfinding system.
• The City of Cranston received $125,000 to help implement ADA accessible walkways, more streetlighting for pedestrian safety, trash receptacles, and more.
• The Providence Downtown Improvement District received $100,000 to help maintain and improve the cleanliness of the city.
• The Southside Community Land Trust received $200,000 to help revitalize Haward Linden Plaza in Providence.
• The Block Island Chamber of Commerce received $123,000 to expand the Mary D. Park.
• The Pawtucket Foundation received $110,000 to fully light the interior of Pawtucket’s Main Street Garage and to support the planned street conversion of 1-way roads to 2-way traffic.
• The Town of Burrillville received $40,000 to invest into the Pascoag and Harrisville Redevelopment districts.
• The Town of Cumberland received $350,000 to help expand upon the $66M redevelopment of Ann & Hope Way.
• The Town of Lincoln received $250,000 to improve pedestrian safety and implement ADA standard sidewalks as well as support landscaping improvements along sidewalks.