The City of Mount Rainier has awarded Usource Construction Company the RFP contract in transforming Rhode Island Ave through the Department of Economic Development’s Façade Improvement Grant Program. The project which will enhance the appearance of building facades from 3201-3311 Rhode Island Avenue is part of the city’s efforts to revitalize its business districts and improve viability for local establishment owners.
“This project is not just a make-over or purely aesthetic. It will increase visibility and will draw residents and visitors to the area, thereby helping our local Mount Rainier businesses who have invested in our community and are the core and heart of our local economy,” said Mayor Celina Benitez. “We are excited that it’s finally happening, and we look forward to the outside of the building matching the great work our business has been doing” she added.
A kickoff meeting attended by Mayor Celina Benitez, City Manager Kourosh Kamali, Department of Economic Development Director Ronald Hopkins, and Usource CEO Shirley Boubert-Rumble and its Project Managers was held on August 30 to discuss the details, logistics, and scope of the project. Construction is set to begin on September 14.
"Usource Construction believes in empowering communities and we are honored to assist the City of Mount Rainier with the Rhode Island Ave Facade Improvements. We look forward to collaborating with the City and the businesses to ensure the upgrades further support the revitalization efforts that are underway." said Boubert-Rumble.
Business owners along Rhode Island Avenue expressed their excitement and support for the project stating the benefits of the project not only to the businesses but also to the community.
“There are tons of traffic coming down Rhode Island Avenue. When things look clean and bright and inviting, they will stop but when things look like they’re falling apart in disrepair, they just keep driving, so I think it’s very important for the City,” said Neil Dicken, owner of Party Time Liquor.
The facade improvement project is slated to be completed by the end of 2022.