Officials present $1M check to PB
The city of Pine Bluff received a $1 million check for the Sixth and Main Street project from its Urban Renewal Agency during Monday’s City Council meeting.
Go Forward CEO Ryan Watley presented the check as part of the capital stack to complete the Sixth and Main Retail and Restuarant District.
“Since 2017, Go Forward Pine Bluff has partnered with the city of Pine Bluff to advance public education, economic development, quality of life and government infrastructure,” said Watley. “This effort is fueled by the 2017 sales tax initiative, private funding and dedicated leadership.”
According to Watley, the funds were made possible through a Walton Family Foundation grant submitted by GFPB.
“The grant aims to address entrepreneurs that desire to own and operate a brick and mortar retail business or restaurant but need more financial capital to start an independent venture and the lack of healthy food options within Pine Bluff,” he said.
GFPB board members and PBURA Executive Director Chandra Griffin joined Watley in presenting the check. Watley said the $1 million is an investment for the entrepreneurs seeking a quality affordable space to start their business as an independent venture.
“This is the result of a strong public-private partnership supporting the advancement of business opportunities in the city of Pine Bluff,” said Washington. “We warmly and lovingly accept the Walton Family Foundation of 1 million dollars.”
In a press release, Watley said the construction will provide efficient commercial kitchens and collaborative retail spaces to keep operational costs low for the vendor while offering a quality place with healthy eating options.
“While we actively recruit franchise retail and restaurant businesses, the strength of Pine Bluff’s economy is tied to the strength of our local entrepreneurs,” said Washington in the press release. “This grant will work to build solid businesses for generations and in the process, create more jobs.”