Fall River Gives Out Second Round of ARPA Funding

FALL RIVER — The second round of American Rescue Plan Act funding is set to hit Fall River businesses and services, city officials announced Wednesday.

Fall River's ARPA advisory panel voted to approve funding for small business recovery, major planning projects and public safety on Dec.16.

The biggest-ticket item is Phase Four of the Quequechan Rail Trail Project, which will receive $4 million through the city's planning department.

The Rail Trail will link Britland Park to Travassos Park and the rest of the trail system.

It will also connect recently developed renovated mills to the edge of the downtown core, giving a boost to local development.

Meanwhile Jobs for Fall River, Inc., an organization focused on stimulating local economic growth, is set to receive $3,260,000 for its Small Business Grant Assistance program.

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The program aims to help small businesses that were negatively affected by the coronavirus pandemic.

It expects to give $2,500 to businesses operating with five or fewer employees, while businesses with six to 10 employees will receive $5,000.

Fall River EMS expects to buy a new ambulance with its $298,900 in expected funding, while the Fall River police department was given $220,000 for 53 new cruiser computers and six new cruiser printers.

The Police Department will also spend $562,000 on new radio system equipment, 20 active shooter kits and five new police cruisers, as well as training in evidence management and auditing, de-escalation, interviewing and interrogation, implicit bias and police reform.

The Planning Department will also receive $300,000 for the renovation of the Jerry Lawton Plaza at the corner of South Main Street and Anawan Street.

The funding will allow for improvements to lighting and landscaping as well as the creation of water and electrical access for outdoor dining, pop-up retail and arts events.