Rhode Islanders vote to approve Question 5 | ABC6

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — Rhode Island voters have shown their support for the arts with the approval of question 5.

The $10 million bond will support the state’s arts community, which has been called a vital economic driver that boosts jobs and tourism.

With 56% of voters in favor, Question 5 has officially passed, setting aside $10 million in funding for the cultural arts and economy grant program.

Advocates said the money will also provide much-needed support for organizations like the Tomaquag museum, The Newport Contemporary Ballet, and Trinity Repertory Company.

Supporters said this investment in the arts not only enriches the lives of Rhode Islanders, but also creates jobs and boosts tourism.

“The arts are the only sector where you have a five-fold bottom line that’s being met. Certainly economic, with arts and culture being one of the third largest sectors in comparison to construction in terms of economic impact on Rhode Island,” said Executive Director for RI State Council on the Arts, Todd Trebour.

With this funding, supporters said the arts community can continue to thrive, bringing in visitors and supporting local businesses across the state.

They argue that arts and culture are proven economic engines, providing good jobs and enhancing tourism efforts that increase revenue.

The bond includes matching grants for local organizations, supports growth at every level, from museums and theater companies to individual artists.

In fact, arts supporters say this investment improves Rhode Island’s appeal as a destination and builds a stronger community for residents.

“It will have direct impact on individuals’ physical and mental health in so many different ways in all different forms of art wether that be music, or visual art, or theatre, or dasnce, and we wanrt to make sure that as one of the state’s leading industries, the arts are seen as essential for both economic growth and quality of life,” said Executive Director of Trinity Rep, Katie Lieberman.