The City of Norfolk was recently awarded $435,000 in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding to assist with commercial rehabilitation activities in downtown Norfolk in the form of façade improvements through the Nebraska Department of Economic Development.

The need for façade improvements was identified through a 2023 Norfolk Downtown Business survey. $90,000 will be used for the sidewalk improvements of three mid-block crossings on Norfolk Avenue to provide street-to-sidewalk accessibility between Second and Third Street, Third and Fourth Street, and Fourth and Fifth Street.

“Once again, we are utilizing available grant resources, won on a competitive basis, to help encourage and facilitate private investment that helps the community grow. This is good news for everyone who enjoys our downtown area,” said Mayor Josh Moenning.

The downtown façade improvements program will provide a 1:1 match of $310,000, and the City of Norfolk will contribute $22,500 for the sidewalk improvements. From the grant funds, $10,000 will be used for construction management and $25,000 will be used for the general administration of the grant. The estimated total cost is $767,500. The proposed project will meet the national objective of minimizing a designated blighted and substandard area and Limited Clientele Activities through the removal of architectural barriers. No persons will be displaced as a result of CDBG activities. Applications for the funds will be available in 2024.

“Thank you to the Nebraska Department of Economic Development for this grant award and to our partners at the Northeast Nebraska Economic Development District for their assistance with the application process. Our team looks forward to working alongside downtown stakeholders and our colleagues at the City to implement the funds and further enhance the River Point Downtown District,” said Candice Alder, Economic Development Director.