Jun 05, 2024
TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Commerce today announced that Kearny County has been awarded $296,250 through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program for a new coffee and bakery shop. This Commercial Rehabilitation grant, along with $98,750 in local matching funds, will help restore an older building and revitalize downtown Deerfield in Kearny County.
“With the opportunities that CDBG grants offer, communities such as Kearny County are able to fund projects that breathe new life into their town, downtown businesses and surrounding communities,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Investing in rural Kansas and downtown businesses brings many opportunities for economic growth, enhancement of community vitality, and quality-of-life improvements for those who choose to call Kansas home.”
This project marks the first Commercial Rehabilitation grant awarded to Kearny County, highlighting a significant milestone in this southwest Kansas county’s efforts to enhance a downtown area and support local businesses. The renovation is expected not only to boost the local economy but serve as a catalyst for future improvements and investments.
The Commercial Rehabilitation project aligns with the long-term vision Kansas Department of Commerce has to encourage vibrant, attractive downtowns that support local entrepreneurs and enhance the appeal of living in southwest Kansas. The coffee shop not only will offer a new dining option for residents and visitors but also will serve as a welcoming gathering space, further enriching the downtown atmosphere of Deerfield.
“The Kansas Department of Commerce works tirelessly to advance the economic well-being of the state,” Commerce Assistance Secretary of Quality Places Director Matt Godinez said. “Through grants like CDBG Commercial Rehabilitation, the department is partnering with communities across Kansas to create vibrant downtown areas that appeal to current and future residents alike.”