Benkelman, Imperial, McCook win grants to plan civic projects

LINCOLN, Neb. -- Benkelman, Imperial and McCook are all among Nebraska cities receiving a total of $168,000 in project planning awards under the Civic and Community Center Financing Fund.

As announced earlier the City of McCook was awarded $12,500 for a feasibility study and conceptual design development for the renovation or replacement of the swimming pool.

The City of Benkelman was awarded $9,000 to develop an architectural design and plan to renovate a vacant building and transform it into an open-air public cultural space and event center.

The City of Imperial was awarded $14,000 for a feasibility study to obtain community input for the renovation of an existing parking lot and outdoor area surrounding the City offices, city gym, and public library into a welcoming public space more conducive to public gatherings and events.

Thirteen municipalities will each receive between $9,000-$15,000 to support local planning efforts related to the development of community facilities — from civic and recreation centers to local pools and public spaces.

“Communities that invest in bettering themselves, in becoming more attractive places to live and raise a family, are essentially investing in our state’s future,” said DED Director Anthony L. Goins. “CCCFF is so important because it gives us a resource by which to help those communities turn their visions into reality.” 

The Department notes that in a typical year, CCCFF awards are made under the categories of Planning or Construction, including rehabilitation or new construction. However, funding limitations resulting from the pandemic brought about an announcement last October that awards from the Fund’s Fiscal Year 2020-21 appropriation would be restricted to project planning.    

“We are looking forward to returning to standard procedure for next year’s CCCFF award cycle,” said CCCFF Program Coordinator Jenny B. Mason. “We are hopeful this cycle of Planning will lead to outstanding projects across the state.”

For more information about the program, including the latest news and updates, visithttps://opportunity.nebraska.gov/cccff/