Sidney’s track record as a progressive community has earned it another shot at setting the standard for the state. Nebraska Lt. Governor Rick Sheehy and Department of Economic Development Director Richard Baier were in Sidney Tuesday to announce that it’s one of five communities getting grant funds for a new program geared toward downtown revitalization. In the first phase, Sidney will receive $29,600 of Community Development Block Grant funds to plan its project, which according to city officials includes replacing streets next to the post office and Chamber of Commerce, installing new downtown lighting and removing old light fixtures, and putting in 24 ADA compliant sidewalk corners. Phase Two will commence in six months when the city presents its plans to the state for another CDBG grant of up to $250,000 to do the work. This is the first time the state has allowed CDBG funds for downtown revitalization. Tuesday’s announcement was made in front of a full crowd at the Coffee Corner downtown, which has served as a model for downtown improvement projects.
(Thanks to Dave Collins KSIDradio.com)