By COLE REIF
Great Bend Post
B&H Development made the public acceptance of the Great Bend Economic Development Loft Project grant Wednesday just outside the historic building at 2015 Lakin Avenue. The owners were awarded $85,250 to help with costs to renovate the second floor of the downtown building.
Andrea Bauer, part of
B&H Development, said the plan is to create an events space for the community
on the second floor and this grant is the first step in making that happen.
"It's missing plumbing, bathrooms, heating and air and electrical systems," said Bauer. "This grant helps underwrite those unseen costs that are necessary. Hopefully other businesses will take advantage of this downtown."
The old Masonic Lodge houses Great Bend Coffee and Yours Truly Gift &
Flower Shoppe on the first floor. Bauer said B&H is still looking into
other grants and tax credits for the renovation that could be upwards of
$600,000. Once completed, the public and working community will have a chance to
rent out the space.
"The second level is broken up into three main spaces," said Bauer. "There would be some variety in size of events that you could host."
As of now, there are not plans to renovate the third floor of the Lakin building.
B&H Development is the first owner to take advantage of the Loft Project grants
that provide a forgivable loan with 0% interest rate for downtown businesses to
renovate upper levels. The grant covers the cost of labor and materials to
connect to the city’s main water line and the cost of a fire alarm installation
and sprinkler system. Buildings within a specific corridor downtown can receive funding in the amount of $5.50 per interior square foot for fire protection.
Property owners have until the end of 2024 to complete the renovations.
Find out more about the Loft Project at gbedinc.com.