The mayor hopes businesses unaffected by Wednesday's tornado will step up to the plate to help businesses that were affected by the storm.
A tornado bears down on Springfield on Wednesday, June 1.SPRINGFIELD -- As Springfield awaits the possibility of state and federal aid in the aftermath of a devastating tornado that carved a line of destruction through the southern third of the city, Mayor Domenic J. Sarno is seeking emergency help for businesses ravaged by the twister and is asking unaffected businesses to lend a helping hand.
Sarno issued the plea Friday night, urging city businesses affected by Wednesday's tornado to contact the Springfield Office of Planning & Economic Development as soon as possible. The mayor also urged Springfield businesses willing to donate support services or temporary space to businesses affected by the tornado to contact Springfield City Hall.
"It is important that during this period, while we work with our federal and state partners, we understand the immediate needs of our businesses so that as resources become available we are prepared to mobilize them to the areas hardest hit," the mayor said.
Those wishing to help may log onto the city's website, www.springfieldcityhall.com, or call (413) 787-6664. The Planning & Economic Development Department will link businesses in need with available services.
This aerial shot of Main Street in downtown Springfield taken on Thursday shows the damage caused by the tornado that hit the city late Wednesday afternoon."The Springfield business-to-business community has always been strong, and now is the time for our mutual assistance and support to help rebuild those that have lost in this tragic event," Sarno said, thanking those businesses that already have offered support.
The mayor said businesses impacted by the powerful tornado -- the second strongest in Massachusetts' history -- may need temporary space or architectural, engineering, landscaping or legal services.
"If you have services that can help out your fellow Springfield businesses in this tremendous time of need, please consider doing so," he said.
On the web:
Springfield City Hall: www.springfieldcityhall.com
Springfield Office of Planning & Economic Development: www.springfieldplanning.org
Emergency Business Assistance: www.springfieldcityhall.com/planning/171.0.html