PAWTUCKET – Today, the City of Pawtucket awarded grants and loans to local businesses to improve their visibility and create a more welcoming and vibrant streetscape.

“As businesses reinvest in our community, it is important that we support them, whether that’s through business counseling, e-permitting, loan assistance, or the new façade improvement program,” said Mayor Donald R. Grebien. “Congratulations to the awardees and thank you for your commitment to Pawtucket.”  

“I am excited to help our local businesses update and improve their storefronts to attract additional business and foot traffic to Pawtucket,” said City Councilor Sandra Cano. “Thank you to the City for partnering to make this project a reality.” 

Businesses were able to apply for small grants and grant-loan combinations. For small grants, applicants could request up to $2,000 for materials for small improvements. For larger projects, the City offered loans for half of the total project up to $30,000 and a grant through federal Community Development Block Grants up to $15,000. The loan is structured to be paid within five years.

Seven businesses took advantage of the small grant. Kyla Coburn Designs (KCD) took advantage of the grant-loan program for their multi-phase, large scale renovation of a historical church at 22 High Street. KCD is planning a six unit live-work artist space with ground floor common area for tenants to hold open houses or display their work. The grant-loan for $30,000 will help cover the cost of energy efficient windows, roof repairs, a second-story deck, repaving, and exterior planters. KCD is a Rhode Island based, nationally acclaimed design-build firm that specializes in historically sensitive projects. 

“I am thrilled to be embarking on this project in Pawtucket. The renovations and enhancements to the former church will not only to breathe life back into the building, but hopefully the entire street,” said owner Kyla Coburn. “Almost ten years ago, KCD rescued and renovated a building on High Street in Central Falls and converted it into a well-loved live-work space and tax revenue generator.” 

Grant Awardees:

Grant/Loan:

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 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 18, 2017

Contact: Lauren Greene