Leonardtown, Maryland has secured a significant grant of $288,600 from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) through its Project Restore 2.0 program. This funding is aimed at revitalizing vacant properties to boost local economic activity and support small businesses.
The grant is part of a broader initiative by the DHCD to enhance the economic vitality of Maryland's commercial corridors. According to the department's website, Project Restore 2.0 focuses on "activating vacant buildings, supporting small businesses, creating jobs, improving commercial corridors, and increasing local economic activity."
Leonardtown targeted two properties for this grant: 22720 Duke Street and 41656 Fenwick Street. Both locations require substantial infrastructural enhancements to become operational. The town's application highlighted these properties as key sites needing development to contribute to the economic growth of the area.
Botanic Café, a successful local business, plans to utilize part of the grant to expand into an adjacent space at 22720 Duke Street. This expansion will include increased seating capacity and a larger kitchen to accommodate growing catering demands, along with making the space available for rent. The location at 41656 Fenwick Street, situated in the heart of historic downtown Leonardtown, was recently acquired by a local resident who owns multiple properties in town. This space will host two businesses, further enriching the local business landscape.
Mayor Dan Burris expressed his gratitude and optimism about the grant's impact. "Leonardtown is honored to receive the Restore 2.0 grant this week, continuing the important partnership with the Dept of Housing and Community Development and the State of Maryland in the effort to revitalize our downtowns and support our locally owned businesses," he stated.
This funding represents a strategic investment in Leonardtown's infrastructure and commercial potential, aiming to attract more businesses and enhance the overall quality of life for residents. As these projects progress, they are expected to play a pivotal role in the town's ongoing efforts to create a vibrant, economically thriving community.
No comments:
Post a Comment