The city of Taos has launched a program to provide financial aid to local businesses and non-profit organizations affected by a major construction project, with $75,000 available for the program and more funds being sought.
TAOS, N.M. (KRQE) – An ongoing construction project along a major road in Taos has businesses complaining that they’re struggling to keep customers coming through their doors. Now, the city has launched a program to keep those businesses from going under.
“We’re all impacted I mean this is kind of ground zero,” said Eric Anderson, owner of Anderson’s Tattoo Parlor.
Eric Anderson owns Anderson’s Tattoo Parlor in the heart of Taos and is now in the center of a major construction project. The renovation of State Highway 64 and 68 started in 2019 and because work has now started in front of his shop, he says it’s affecting his business. “Summertime is generally my busy time so it’s noticeably suffering,” said Anderson.
He’s just one of the businesses that KRQE spoke to, expressing frustration that the long-running project is driving customers away. That’s why on Tuesday, the city launched the Small Business Continuity Grant Program that will give financial aid to local businesses and non-profit organizations as construction continues. “We’re hoping that this little bit will help, maybe get a month of rent paid for or maybe get a paycheck or two for employees paid for,” said Pascualito Maestas, Taos Mayor.
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To be eligible, the business or non-profit must have 50 or fewer full-time employees. The city is making $75,000 available for the program, which is funded by federal funds the town received through the American Rescue Plan Act. The mayor says the funds will be distributed based on how many businesses apply, as they work to secure more funding for the future.
“So even though it’s not as much as we would like because our ARPA funds are so limited, we’re hoping we can just help these businesses get through this period,” said Pascualito Maestas.
Meanwhile, businesses say that they’re grateful something is being done to keep Taos small businesses alive. “The reputation as an arts town needs to be supported and perpetuated and financed,” said Anderson.
The deadline to apply for the grant program is September 27. People interested in applying can do so on their website.