OCTOBER 2, 2015 (LINCOLN, NEB.)—The Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED) has awarded $1,965,290 in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding to 13 Nebraska communities to complete Phase I and II projects in the Downtown Revitalization category. These projects are designed to improve infrastructure and businesses within central business districts.
The CDBG Downtown Revitalization Category is open to CDBG non-entitlement incorporated municipalities throughout Nebraska. Grants are administered by DED from the State’s annual allocation of CDBG funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Communities must first successfully complete the Phase I planning phase to qualify for the opportunity to submit a Phase II (implementation) application. Phase II awards up to $350,000 per project are available to implement those activities proposed within approved plans.
Fremont (pop. 26,340) was awarded $350,000 for facade and building improvements, including brick masonry exteriors, structural deficits, replacement of antiquated sewer and water systems, and compliance with Americans with Disabilities Act. Fremont’s multiple-story buildings along Main, Broad and Sixth streets have been identified for redevelopment. Currently, the buildings provide valuable street-level space for specialty stores and boutiques. Converting the upper levels into housing units would go a long way toward alleviating the city’s housing shortage. The City’s matching contribution is $109,000. Contact Jean Van Iperen at 402-727-2624, or Jean.Kaup@fremontne.gov.