The mechanics’ shop on Chapel Street has undergone a transformation over the past few weeks, with new siding, new doors, and an overall facelift of the property. Block Island Auto is now open and ready for business, with onsite mechanics Ahmet Ozen and Will Murray making repairs to the island’s automobiles.
The interior of the garage has been transformed as well, with new shelving, equipment, and tools. All told, the new owners have spent close to $100,000 on upgrading the space.Owner Johnny Leone spoke to The Times about the new business venture, and his goal of providing a necessary and vital service for the island. The shop will be open six days a week, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and they strive to offer same-day service for most repairs.One of the major services the shop will provide is state inspections. Block Island Auto is a certified inspection station, which is good news for islanders. Auto inspections are extremely difficult for islanders to obtain in the absence of a certified provider on the island, requiring the owner to travel with the car to the mainland in order to complete the state’s automobile inspection. Having the ability to get cars
