For those unfamiliar, applications are being accepted for the Neighborhood Grant Program of theCity of Madison Planning Division. These grants help neighborhoods beautify gateways, create public gathering places, build leadership skills, or plan for the future. Since the program began in 1999, it has helped neighbors take on some 300 projects realized with over 20,000 volunteer hours. The grant program has provided funding but it is neighbors’ ideas, determination, and pride that are behind the successful projects now part of the Madison landscape.
There is too much information to share in this brief column but please check out the city website information on the grants http://www.cityofmadison.com/dpced/planning/neighborhood-grants/1576/
Here is some brief information on the grants. Eligible applicants include Neighborhood Associations/Planning Councils. A neighborhood association or neighborhood-planning council is an organization officially recognized as such by the City of Madison. Newly forming neighborhood-based organizations may be eligible to apply but must be authorized by the Planning Division before applying.
A business association, an organization constituted for the benefit of a neighborhood business district consisting of at least four block faces is also eligible. Projects/activities for these applicants should ensure that business district and neighborhood associations work together to make neighborhood business districts strong, healthy, and integral parts of their neighborhoods.
Eligible projects and activities include Community Enhancement – Projects/activities that will improve the appearance and livability of the neighborhood’s public spaces such as streetscapes, gateways, and neighborhood business areas. Projects and activities are generally high visibility, capital projects that can be undertaken and completed in a short period of time.
Neighborhood Leadership and Capacity Building, or projects/activities to improve the organizational capacity of neighborhood associations in addressing issues, improving conditions, and enhancing the quality of life within the neighborhood are also eligible. This category is for neighborhood groups that have active associations and leadership, and newly forming neighborhood-based organizations, or neighborhoods with little organizational structure or leadership.
Grant applications are due on February 22, 2016 @ 4:30 pm. Questions can be directed to Linda Horvath, Planning Division, lhorvath@cityofmadison.com, 608-267-1131 .