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9 | Page A pril 2 5 I ssueCommerce David Toland said. %u201cThese projects not only enhance the appearance and functionality of commercial spaces but also contribute to the success and sustainability of local economies throughout Kansas.%u201dThe awarded projects:%u2022 Burlingame: $300,000 %u2013 The proposed use of the Coach%u2019s Hometown Gym located at 105 E. Santa Fe Avenue, will address a recognized need, complement existing recreation facilities, and generate increased foot traffic.%u2022 Lyon County: $300,000 %u2013 A two-level commercial building located at 713 Commercial Street in Emporia will house Fork & Spoon as well as two additional organizations, GoodMuscle Gym and Emporia First Friday Art Walk.%u2022 Overbrook: $158,250 %u2013 The building is a corner lot along U.S. 56 Highway which will be developed into a walk-up ice cream shop, situated across from the community pool.The CDBG Commercial Rehabilitation program provides funding to assist private property owners in rehabilitating blighted structures in downtown districts. The grant program aims to assist Kansas communities to preserve and improve commercial districts, ensuring their long-term economic growth and sustainability.Interested applicants are encouraged to apply while funds last. Approximately $2.05 million is still available. For more information about the grant program or to apply, click here.Commerce Awards Over $1.5 Million to Help Fund Downtown Revitalization ProjectsTOPEKA (4.24.2025) %u2013 Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced the Kansas Department of Commerce has awarded more than $1.5 million in Historic Economic Asset Lifeline (HEAL) funding to support 19 projects revitalizing downtown buildings across the state. When matched with more than $6.4 million in local contributions, this round of HEAL funding brings the total investment to approximately $7.9 million.%u201cOur rural communities are some of the best places to be in Kansas %u2014 and it%u2019s because we are intentional with how we invest in them and how we want them to grow,%u201d Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. %u201cBy revitalizing our historic buildings, we can create spaces that drive community growth and bring in new economic opportunities for the entire state.%u201dBy providing matching grants through a competitive process, HEAL helps communities transform vacant spaces into thriving hubs for businesses, housing, childcare, arts, civic activities and entrepreneurship. These awards are designed to breathe new life into rural downtown districts. In doing so, HEAL fosters reinvestment, encourages community engagement and boosts the overall economic health of Kansas communities.