Bonner Springs will receive a $75,000 grant to revitalize old downtown buildings, according to a news release from Gov. Laura Kelly.
It was one of 15 projects approved across Kansas communities to receive the Historic Economic Asset Lifeline grant.
HEAL was created in 2021 as a partnership between the Patterson Family Foundation and the Department of Commerce. The first round of HEAL grants resulted in 32 commercial buildings being rehabilitated.
“I have long believed that when you make downtowns attractive, safe places to be, more businesses, better jobs, and greater community follow,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “That’s why my administration has worked to bring life back into our town squares by resurrecting the Kansas Main Street program and by pursuing this partnership with the Patterson Family Foundation.”
Interest in the program remains strong. A total of 30 applications were received during the latest HEAL grant round.
“Active downtown areas give a sense of place to small communities,” said Lindsey Patterson Smith, president of the Patterson Family Foundation. “We were happy to join the Department of Commerce and its partners in helping create new opportunities through revitalization.”
The spring 2023 HEAL round will open Feb. 15 and close March 31. An informational webinar will be offered via Zoom at 11 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 2. Register for the webinar and find more information about the spring 2023 HEAL program at kansascommerce.gov/heal.