Downtown Rehabilitation Grant

The Downtown Rehabilitation Grant Program is administered by the City of Kearney, Nebraska, with funding sourced through the Community Redevelopment Authority (CRA) and other local sources. The purpose of the program is to eliminate blight and promote the revitalization and development of properties within the Downtown Kearney District. This initiative specifically supports business and property owners in upgrading and restoring commercial buildings, improving safety standards, and increasing energy efficiency, all with the broader goal of enhancing the economic and visual vibrancy of the downtown area. Eligible applicants for the program include property owners and business tenants located within the defined Downtown District boundaries. The program provides a grant of up to 50% of the total project cost, with a maximum reimbursement amount of $20,000. The remaining 50% must be covered by the applicant and can come from personal funds, labor contributions, or other financing sources. Applications must include a detailed project narrative, cost estimates, photographs of the property, construction drawings, and a completed application form. If applicants provide their own labor, the cost estimate must be equivalent to a professional contractor’s quote, and prior approval by the Grant Committee is required. Grant-eligible improvements include façade renovations (such as doors, windows, tuck-pointing, and signage), commercial rehabilitation (e.g., roof, structural, and fire prevention systems), ADA-compliant accessibility improvements, and energy efficiency upgrades (including insulation, HVAC, and energy-efficient lighting). However, funding cannot be used for non-permanent items like landscaping or for any improvements made prior to grant approval. Each project must also meet relevant permitting and building code standards and must be completed within twelve months after receiving a Notice to Proceed. All applications will be reviewed by a Grant Committee composed of City staff and Downtown Improvement Board members. Applications are scored based on project readiness, visual and structural impact, preservation of historic features, and applicant investment. Preference is given to applicants who have not previously received funding. The final grant amount is disbursed as a reimbursement after proof of payment, completion inspection, and submission of required documentation, including a W-9 form. The current application cycle is open, and the deadline to submit a completed application is 5:00 p.m. on March 31, 2026. Applications must be submitted via email in PDF format to [email protected]. Questions or requests for technical assistance can be directed to Melissa Dougherty-O’Hara, City Planner, at (308) 233-3254. Projects may not begin until the applicant has received formal written approval and signed a grant agreement with the City. Unauthorized work or incomplete applications will not be considered for funding.