ElectriCities has awarded Downtown Revitalization Grants to four North Carolina public power communities: Albemarle, Statesville, Wake Forest, and Wilson. Each community will receive $10,000 to help achieve its downtown revitalization goals and spur downtown economic development.
The City of Albemarle’s grant proceeds will help fund its Downtown Catalyst Grant Program. Launched in 2022 to spur economic vitality in the downtown district, the program is a public/private partnership that assists businesses in the downtown municipal service district by offering grants to fund facade and/or building stabilization improvements, as well as internal improvements, including furniture, fixtures, and equipment.
The City of Statesville will use its funds to cover more than 20 large electric boxes downtown with local community art from the school system, established artists, and local flavor art wraps. The enhanced boxes will improve the aesthetic of Statesville’s downtown that’s rich with historical architecture and beautiful city-scaped sidewalks with trees and flowers.
The Town of Wake Forest will put its funds toward retaining Firebox Theatre, a performing arts venue in Downtown Wake Forest. Along with supporting theatrical productions and cultural experiences, the theatre serves local youth through educational programs, including introductory improvisation and dramatic performance.
The City of Wilson will put its funds toward adding a mural and improving 12 intersections with crosswalk murals in Historic Downtown Wilson. Part of its Wilson Street Works initiative, the project will support activity for local businesses, make the city more attractive, engage citizens and community groups, improve the quality of life and place, and promote bicycle and pedestrian safety.
ElectriCities awards the competitive Downtown Revitalization Grants twice a year—each spring and fall—to its members in the North Carolina Eastern Municipal Power Agency (NCEMPA) and in North Carolina Municipal Power Agency Number 1 (NCMPA1). Grant proceeds must be used for projects that advance the community’s downtown revitalization goals and are approved by the city or town manager or chief executive.
Congratulations to these latest grant recipients! The next cycle for ElectriCities Downtown Revitalization Grants opens in September 2023.