Accessing Community Space Funding in Idaho
GrantID: 15779
Grant Funding Amount Low: Open
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: Open
Summary
Grant Overview
Barrier to Redevelopment: Transforming Industrial Sites into Community Spaces in Idaho
Idaho's ongoing struggle with underutilized industrial sites presents significant barriers to community development. The state is home to numerous abandoned industrial properties, many of which remain contaminated and unassessed, stymying potential redevelopment efforts. According to the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality, there are 40 declared brownfields in the state, spanning urban and rural settings, which contribute to both economic stagnation and social disconnection in local communities.
These barriers primarily affect lower-income urban areas and rural communities where industrial decline has left a legacy of unemployment and environmental neglect. Cities like Boise and Pocatello have seen their industrial sectors shrink dramatically, leading to vacant lots that not only detract from aesthetic value but also pose health and safety risks for nearby residents. Local community organizations and municipal planners have expressed a need for innovative solutions to revitalize these areas, converting them into spaces that serve community needs including job training, recreation, and social engagement.
This funding opportunity effectively addresses these barriers by offering grants to develop community-focused spaces on brownfield sites. With a maximum award of $500,000, applicants can pursue projects aimed at transforming these contaminated areas into vibrant community hubs. Such transformations are essential for fostering social cohesion and improving quality of life in Idaho's diverse communities. Fulfilling this need requires a collaborative approach that engages local residents in the planning and design processes, ensuring that redevelopment initiatives align with community aspirations.
For Idaho, the outcomes of successful applications are significant. Not only will transformed industrial sites provide essential services and resources, but they will also bolster local economies by attracting businesses, creating jobs, and increasing property values. The shift in perception of these sites from liabilities to assets can play a crucial role in revitalizing neighborhoods. Implementing these outcomes requires a clear strategy that emphasizes community input, prioritizes safety, and integrates sustainable practices to ensure new developments are both economically viable and environmentally responsible.
As applicants navigate the application process, they must articulate their community engagement strategies and demonstrate how their projects align with local needs. It is crucial to evaluate existing community resources and infrastructure to ensure that the proposed redevelopment initiatives are feasible and well-integrated into the surrounding environment, given Idaho's distinct mix of urban and rural landscapes.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
