Help is on the way for Black Diamond businesses hurt by the closing of the state Route 169 Kummer Bridge across the Green River.

Nancy Porzio, Director of the U. S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Seattle District office, announced Jan. 16 the SBA will make loans available to Black Diamond businesses. The SBA acted on a request from Gov. Chris Gregoire for a disaster declaration due to the Kummer Bridge closure.

Low-interest disaster loans are being offered up to $2 million to help small businesses and most, private, non-profit organizations. The loans will help meet financial needs caused by the bridge closure. The interest rate on these working capital loans is 4 percent with terms up to 30 years.

Disaster loan information and application forms are available from SBA’s Customer Service Center by calling 800-659‑2955 or sending an e-mail to disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. Information is also available at SBA’s Web site, www.sba.gov/services/disasterassistance.

Applicants may apply online using the Electronic Loan Application via SBA’s secure Web site at disasterloan.sba.gov/ela/

The deadline to apply for these loans is Oct. 13.