The City of Ottawa has received one of 15 Historic Economic Asset Lifeline, or “HEAL” Grants. Nearly $750,000 in Grants were given out. The City of Ottawa received the largest Grant awarded at $75,000. The money is to revitalize underused and dilapidated downtown buildings in need of repair, to make them viable economic drivers and increase opportunities for investment in downtown areas. The building targeted in Ottawa is 115 South Main, sitting between the State Farm Insurance Office and the former Pop-A-Top Bar, which has sat empty for quite some time.
Governor Kelly calls downtown areas vital and says the goal of the Grant Program is to resurrect the Kansas Main Street Program. The program is possible because of a strategic collaboration with the Patterson Family Foundations. Another round of funding applications will be accepted starting February 15th through March 31st. Cities are welcome to apply in all rounds of the funding.
