SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – Springfield Museums received $1.2 million in funding.
This is all part of pandemic recovery efforts by the federal government. Museums officials said this money will ensure doors stay open. This is a lifeline to help these institutions to survive and to recover and to thrive.
The Small Business Administration awarded the Springfield Museums a $1.2 million Shuttered Venue Operator grant. A program aimed at helping organizations like the museums get operations back up and running in the aftermath of the pandemic. Which forced the Springfield Museums to close for four months during the height of the pandemic.
Kay Simpson, the President & CEO of Springfield Museums told 22News, “That had a very negative impact from tickers admissions, the museum store, and all of our programs.”
Even after reopening, the museums still faced challenges. Costly renovations to meet COVID guidelines, limited capacity, and low ticket sales left the museums struggling, threatening the 164-year history. Which officials say this money stands to preserve.
“This is a good day for quadrangle it’s a good day for the people of western Massachusetts. We’ve got a prize here with a legacy that is so rich that is always has to be honored”, said Rep. Richard Neil.
The Shuttered Venue Operator Grant is part of the American Rescue Plan. So far the U.S. Small Business Administration has given $16 billion in grants to shuttered venues across the country.
The Springfield Museums is back open and operating at their regular hours.
