CBDG Downtown Revitalization

The Community Development Block Grant Downtown Revitalization program is administered by the Nebraska Department of Economic Development, a state agency responsible for fostering economic growth, infrastructure development, and community vitality across Nebraska. This program operates under the broader Community Development Block Grant framework, which supports local governments in addressing infrastructure, economic, and community development needs. The Downtown Revitalization opportunity is designed to strengthen traditional business districts and enhance the economic core of Nebraska communities through targeted public investment. The primary purpose of the Downtown Revitalization program is to leverage both public and private investments to improve downtown infrastructure and stimulate economic growth. The program focuses on revitalizing or redeveloping infrastructure in traditional business centers, addressing health and safety concerns, and supporting commercial revitalization. By improving the physical environment and overall viability of downtown areas, the program aims to increase local tax bases, support business retention and expansion, and create vibrant centers for community activity. Funding through this opportunity is specifically intended for the implementation phase of downtown revitalization efforts. Eligible uses include physical improvements to the built environment, such as infrastructure upgrades, streetscape enhancements, and rehabilitation of blighted or substandard structures. A critical requirement is that applicants must have completed a downtown revitalization predevelopment or planning study prior to applying, or must submit such a study alongside their application. This ensures that funded projects are grounded in comprehensive and well-informed planning processes. The program requires that all proposed activities meet national objectives related to the prevention or elimination of slum and blight on an area basis. Projects may also include components that benefit low- and moderate-income populations, although this is secondary to the primary slum and blight objective. The emphasis on addressing deteriorated conditions and improving safety reflects the program’s goal of stabilizing and enhancing defined downtown areas in a sustainable and economically beneficial manner. Eligible applicants are local government entities within Nebraska, as the program is administered at the state level and targets community-level development. Applications must demonstrate alignment with a comprehensive downtown revitalization plan and show how proposed activities will contribute to long-term economic development. The program encourages partnerships between public and private sectors, recognizing that collaborative investment is essential to successful downtown redevelopment. The application process is conducted through an online portal, with submissions opening on July 1, 2026 and closing on September 15, 2026. Applicants may submit multiple applications, provided each meets program requirements. Questions regarding the application can be directed to the designated program contact via email. Awards are made competitively, with funding decisions based on how well proposals align with program objectives, readiness for implementation, and the strength of supporting planning documentation. While specific award timelines are not stated, funding becomes available upon successful completion of required predevelopment activities.

Ensure project is backed by a completed revitalization study and clearly addresses slum and blight conditions while demonstrating economic impact