Barrington Residents Asked To Shop, Dine Local Amid Reopening

BARRINGTON, RI — Barrington is encouraging residents to head back to local businesses as they start to reopen as part of phase two in the state's phased-in reopening of the economy.

Many small businesses were closed for two months during the coronavirus health crisis, and now face occupancy and other restrictions upon reopening. But Barrington Town Manager Jim Cunha call them "the backbone of our community" and are asking those who can shop local to do so rather than ordering online.

Residents are also encouraged to make a reservation and dine outside at a local resident in advance of phase two, which expected to allow 50 percent indoor seating as of June 1.

"Local businesses have worked hard to implement statewide re-opening guidelines," Cunha said in a letter to the community this weekend. "Here at town hall, we are working hard as well to make sure that we are providing support for our local businesses."

Local businesses needing assistance are asked to call Economic Development Director Debra Page-Trim at 247-1900 X365 or dpagetrim@barrington.ri.gov.

Barrington Town Hall remains closed to visitors. Residents are encouraged to do business online or by calling 247-1900 Ext 1. Town hall hours are 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Mondays, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays, and 8:30 a.m. to noon on Friday.

Those needing real estate recordings and marriage licenses are asked to call for an appointment. Details of the financial town meeting are still being determined.

"For the past month, we have been working with other communities, the League of Cities and Towns, and the Governor's Office to determine the best way to proceed while balancing the need for transparency and local decision making with health and safety," Cunha said of the town meeting.