City to Apply for Downtown Funds

The city will be applying for $10 million in funds under the state's Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) program and is seeking public input to help shape that submission.

The program, created in 2016, is intended to transform downtown neighborhoods into vibrant centers that offer a high quality of life and are magnets for redevelopment, business, job creation and economic and housing density and diversity. The state encourages compact, walkable downtowns as a way to rebuild the economy from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as achieve the state's climate goals by promoting the use of public transit and reducing dependence on private vehicles.

The city will hold a public meeting to get feedback from the business community at 10:30 a.m. Friday, Sept. 27, in the Common Council Chambers, City Hall, third floor.

In collaboration with the Common Council, the city also will meet with the general public at 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 3, in the Common Council Chambers to discuss the application.

The city's target area stretches from the train station to North Cherry Street between the arterials. The idea is to create an active downtown with a strong sense of place and attract new businesses that create a robust mix of shopping, entertainment and service options for residents and visitors alike.

For this grant award, the state puts an emphasis on shovel-ready revitalization projects that can demonstrate viability. To find out more about the DRI process, click here.

If you have any questions about this grant process, contact city Planner Richard Distel at [email protected]