Projo 7 to 7 News Blog

Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse told local arts leaders that the $900-billion federal stimulus package will also benefit local arts and cultural organizations. Whitehouse said the stimulus legislation includes $50 million specifically aimed at creating and retaining jobs at arts-related nonprofits such as theaters, museums, dance companies and orchestras.

Under the stimulus plan, Rhode Island is expected to receive about $300,000 in direct arts funding through the Rhode Island State Council on the Arts (RISCA). Groups that have received state or federal arts grants in the last four years can also apply to the National Endowment for the Arts for additional funding. In all, Whitehouse said, the stimulus could bring Rhode Island arts groups as much as $800,000.

Overall, Rhode Island is due to receive about $1.1-billion from the stimulus, known officially as the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

The Rhode Island Democrat made the comments at a morning question-and-answer session at the Steel Yard, a former steel plant that now houses artists' studios and classrooms. He was joined by Providence Mayor David N. Cicilline and House Finance Chairman Steven M. Costantino.

A workshop for arts groups interested in applying for stimulus money will be held Wednesday, April 1 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Department of Administration headquarters at One Capitol Hill. For more information visit www.arts.ri.gov/recovery.

 Tags  economy Rhode Island Sheldon Whitehouse stimulus package

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