Peabody has funding, seeks projects

Peabody Main Street Association hopes to get a grant for improvements to businesses on Walnut St.

The organization is seeking applicants and hopes to distribute $25,000 to $50,000 per property from a Kansas Department of Commerce grant called Building a Stronger Economy.

Peabody Main Street already has secured 25% matching funds needed for the grant and now is looking for business owners needing structural and utility improvements.

Money for sidewalk and light poles, as well as renovations to Sunflower Theatre, also is in the plan.

Grant money may be used only for first-floor commercial properties.

Expenses could include:

• Structural repairs such as foundation, joists, and support beams.
• Roof replacement.
• Utility upgrades.
• Parking lot resurfacing.

Furniture, fixtures, flooring, internet connections, equipment, supplies, inventory, or disposable materials are not eligible.

Business owners who rent their buildings must get written permission from their landlords before applying.

Peabody Main Street will decide how much money can be budgeted for each property.

Business owners may use an online link by Jan. 15 to let the association know they are interested. They will need a contractor or engineer’s quote by Jan. 25. The link may be found at https://forms.gle/xwcqRYkJchdz5YbC6.