By COLE REIF
Great Bend Post
In January, it was announced the first Loft Project grant application was submitted through the Great Bend Economic Development. The first building in the downtown area of Great Bend to make use of the grants to improve their upper level is the old Masonic Lodge building at 2015 Lakin Avenue, which currently houses Great Bend Coffee and Yours Truly Gift & Flower Shoppe.
Economic Development Director Sara Hayden said the forgivable loan with a 0% interest
rate allows downtown businesses to renovate upper levels to address housing
shortages and the need for more commercial space.
"They have wonderful plans to renovate the upper floor into commercial space," said Hayden. "In the next few weeks, we'll follow up with the exciting plans they will reveal and tours to get people excited about that."
The grant covers the cost of labor and materials to connect the city’s main
water line to the eligible building and the cost of a sprinkler system and fire
alarm installation. Buildings within a specific corridor downtown can receive
funding in the amount of $5.50 per interior square foot for fire protection.
Great Bend Economic Development will present B&H Development, owners of the
building at 2015 Lakin, a check for $85,250 on Wednesday, March 9.
The City of Great Bend appropriated $1 million from their American Rescue Plan
Act funds to help fund the loft project initiative. Property
owners have until Dec. 31, 2024 to complete the renovations.
Find out more about the Loft Project at gbedinc.com.