By COLE REIF
Great Bend Post
Last fall, the Kansas Department of Commerce launched a revitalization
program, the Historic Economic Asset Lifeline (HEAL), to address the cost of
renovating downtown buildings.
More than $1.8 million was awarded, and a future restaurant and outdoor
gathering spot in Great Bend is among the 32 projects chosen.
Great Bend Economic Development Director Sara Hayden said the HEAL program
assists building owners with matching grants to cover expenses as historic
properties are revitalized.
"They did award those HEAL grants last year, but just waited until last week to submit their press release," said Hayden. "We had to keep a button on our lips until that was finally released. We had seven applications submitted and one was awarded in Great Bend."
The Landing Restaurant and Outdoor Gathering Place received $43,960 from
the HEAL program for the renovation the property on the southwest corner of the
Forest and Williams intersection.
Hayden said the project will include a new restaurant, loft spaces and outdoor
area for the community. The building recently had the B-29 mural painted on its
east wall, and has a vacant lot to the east that will turn into the outdoor
area.
A total of 244 applications were received for all of the HEAL grants, and 32
were chosen.