Commerce Awards $362,000 in E-HEAL Funding for Rural Downtown Buildings

Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced that the Department of Commerce has awarded $362,000 through the Emergency Historic Asset Lifeline (E-HEAL) program. These funds will support five downtown revitalization projects for buildings facing likely demolition or collapse.

“Through the E-HEAL program we have preserved historic buildings across Kansas that would have been lost due to unforeseen events,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “These funds not only save these unique spaces but resurrect them into new and refreshed businesses that drive economic growth and instill a greater sense of community pride throughout the state.”

The E-HEAL program addresses urgent needs in rural communities by stabilizing and rehabilitating historic downtown buildings that are facing imminent loss, are causing damage to surrounding buildings and/or have structural issues due to fire, storm damage or other emergencies. These investments aim to convert vacant or damaged properties into vibrant community assets, including spaces for small businesses, childcare centers, housing, arts and cultural spaces, or entrepreneurial ventures.

The E-HEAL projects include:

• Burlington: $37,000 – Restoration of the Flint Hills Plaza Theatre, once a popular local movie theater. The revitalized venue is envisioned to host films, live performances, events, and community meetings.
• Howard: $100,000 – Stabilization of the historic Howard National Bank building, constructed in 1888. This project preserves a key piece of the community’s architectural and economic heritage.
• LeRoy: $25,000 – Stabilization of the historic 1908 Brownfield Building will ensure its structural integrity and safety. The restored space will house a community grocery store, providing fresh produce and essential goods to residents in LeRoy and the surrounding area.
• Meriden: $100,000 – Structural repairs and a new roof will save a longstanding flower shop, improving weather resistance and preserving a mainstay of the community’s downtown.
• Stockton: $100,000 – Renovation of the Historic Exchange Bank Building will bring three distinct businesses back to Main Street, including a restaurant and bar, retail store, and residential units.

“Every small town in Kansas has a story to tell, and our downtown buildings are part of that story,” Office of Rural Prosperity Director Trisha Purdon said. “Through E-HEAL, we’re helping communities protect those stories while creating new chapters of opportunity and growth.”

To learn more about the HEAL program, visit here.