McKee launches grant program for small businesses affected by Washington Bridge closure

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — In the 9 months since the Washington Bridge’s sudden closure, dozens of businesses on either side have closed or spoken about financial difficulties.

Today, Governor Dan McKee announced a new grant program to try and aid small businesses in that ongoing effort.

McKee was joined today by Rhode Island Secretary of Commerce Liz Tanner and local officials from both sides of the bridge to kick off a brand new grant program, putting forward $2.6 million dollars in federal assistance.

$800,000 will go to Providence, $1.2 will go to East Providence, and the rest will be spread across the state.

“I think, I was advocating for more money throughout the process just in general. I think the grants are relatively modest, I think the entire pot of money is relatively modest,” said Providence Mayor Brett Smiley.

“But what I heard from business owners is that something is better than nothing. That’s certainly how I feel, and I’m grateful the general assembly actually increased the total pool of grants beyond what the Governor had originally proposed. And so, it’s a start,” he said.

Since December, dozens of businesses have attributed their closures to the Washington Bridge’s shutdown.

But businesses are happy to be getting something they don’t have to pay back, even if its not necessarily much.

“We’re all back on certain bills, and those interests, those fees and maybe waive some of that stuff and help us with that too. Because we couldn’t pay, so now we’re trying to catch up and pay it,” said owner of Rosa’s Tavern, Steven Costa.

“I think they’re doing a good job trying to figure out ways to help us, like I said with the grants, it’s a good idea. Little things like that, they just need to look into,” said Costa.

Mondays program is available statewide, and will be doled out in portions of $500, $1,000, or $2,500 dollar grants.

The program officially opens Tuesday, September 10.