CDBG Stimulus Funds Helping Iowa’s Downtowns Become More Sustainable
New funding programs will help revitalize Iowa’s downtowns.
Iowa's downtowns are often touted by Main Street Iowa as thriving models of the sustainable community concepts being embraced throughout the country. Now, federal stimulus dollars are helping to support local efforts by funding innovative and replicable approaches to sustainability. Using federal community development block grant (CDBG) funding, the Iowa Department of Economic Development (IDED) announced two new programs in March 2009.
Sustainable community demonstration and downtown revitalization funding opportunities are intended to assist communities in demonstrating innovative, cutting-edge solutions to making Iowa's downtowns more environmentally, economically and culturally viable. IDED is seeking sustainable community and downtown revitalization projects that demonstrate innovative, out-of-the-box, comprehensive and replicable approaches to sustainability.
Sustainable community project examples may include:
- A comprehensive energy efficiency program for downtown properties;
- Renewable energy – solar hot water, photovoltaic, community wind, small-scale wind, fuel cell;
- Geothermal heating and cooling;
- Façade rehabs for downtown and historic buildings;
- 100% on-site storm water management;
- Green infrastructure'
- Infill development projects built to high green standards and net-zero energy ready – built to take advantage of future energy advances so building produces same amount of energy it uses;
- Sustainable streetscapes that promote energy efficiency, water conservation, biking, walking, historic preservation, durability and sense of place.
One example of a possible project is the rehabilitation of a historic downtown building with restored façade, a green roof and solar hot water installation.
With a focus on smaller communities, only cities and counties with a population of less than 50,000 people are eligible to apply. With CDBG funds being used to fund the programs, projects must be a part of a comprehensive downtown revitalization effort and benefit low- and moderate-income persons and/or prevent or eliminate slum or blight. Grants for up to $500,000 are available from one of the two funding programs. To meet federal stimulus goals, selected projects must be ready for quick implementation.
With an April 2, 2009 deadline, more than 70 pre-applications were submitted for funding consideration.
