Council Approves Ordinance for ARPA Funds

Approved $124 million in Federal Funds and $5.5 million in Community Development Block Grants

---

Providence, RI – At tonight’s Providence City Council meeting, councilors overwhelmingly approved $124 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds that will directly impact city residents and build long-term investments in Providence’s neighborhoods. The allocated funding includes substantial investments in housing, parks and recreation centers, tourism, travel, hospitality, water/sewer infrastructure improvements, and economic relief for small businesses and many organizations negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. “Taxpayers should know these dollars will be tracked and accounted for by an independent auditor. This was a necessary checks and balances mechanism. My colleagues and I demanded accountability,” said Council President John Igliozzi.

The accounting firm of Clifton Larsen Allen LLP will serve as the independent auditor. “I am proud of the hard work and collaborative efforts of the City Council and administration,” said Finance Chairwoman Jo-Ann Ryan. “In the wake of the devastating COVID-19 pandemic, this is the long-awaited relief and investment in our recovery that the people of Providence need and deserve.”