Improvements coming to Warren Armory and Wood Street

Improvements in Bristol and Warren are on the way thanks to grants from the Rhode Island Foundation. The projects are 2 of just 47 statewide to win funding from the Foundation’s competitive Community Grants Program.

“We’re excited about these ideas for making community happen in more and better ways at the local level. Supporting community-building will improve shared places and quality of life, promote collaboration and increase community engagement,” said Jessica David, executive vice president of strategy and community investments. “We’re grateful to have donors who invest in our work and partners like these that understand the needs of their community.”

The Mosaico Community Development Corporation received $10,000 for streetscape improvements in the Wood Street neighborhood. The work will include adding bike racks and bins for trash and recyclables among other improvements.

“We worked with Wood Street business owners and town officials to develop a phased plan to improve the area’s streetscape. Improvements have already started on the north side of the neighborhood. This grant will enable us to begin work on the south end,” said Diana Campbell, executive director.

Historic Warren Armory will use its $3,000 grant to repair and restore deteriorating brick and mortar on the 176-year-old building.

“The Armory Hall and Public Hall was built in 1842 from funds given to the Warren Artillery Company by the state of Rhode Island and the town of Warren for their loyal support of Governor King during the Dorr Rebellion. Today, Armory Hall serves as a cultural center for the town of Warren hosting public events, meetings and celebrations,” said Edward Theberge, treasurer of the board of trustees.

The funding from the Community Grants Program is supplemented by a gift from long-time Foundation donor Anne Sage.

The Rhode Island Foundation is the largest and most comprehensive funder of nonprofit organizations in Rhode Island. Working with generous and visionary donors, the Foundation raised $38 million and awarded $43 million in grants to organizations addressing the state’s most pressing issues and needs of diverse communities in 2017. Through leadership, fundraising and grantmaking activities, often in partnership with individuals and organizations, the Foundation is helping Rhode Island reach its true potential. For more information, visit rifoundation.org.