Mile of History project funding in the form of a $6.2 million loan was recently announced by Mayor Brett Smiley. The loan will be through the Rhode Island Infrastructure Bank. At the announcement, flanked by community partners and other city officials at the Old State House, Smiley said:
“This is a meaningful milestone in both improving the city’s infrastructure but also celebrating one of the most important miles in our city. Today we are making a major investment in Benefit Street. The funding we have allocated…will ensure the character, beauty and accessibility of this treasured landmark will be enhanced for generations to come.”
Included in the infrastructure project will be brick pavement restoration, cracked sidewalk repairs, switching out brick for sections of concrete and asphalt, and making improvements to tree wells as well as ensuring ADA accessibility.
Printing services provide a means for a business to keep their customers informed as to infrastructure repairs that might necessitate alternative routes to reach them.
The Mile of History project was suggested by the Mile of History Association as a way of creating a more inviting way to welcome visitors. Proponents point out the important role that Benefit Street has played and continues to play in the city’s tourism industry and its local economy.