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9 | Page April 4 I ssue%u201cHistorically, rural and small communities often lack the resources to revitalize their towns %u2014 that%u2019s why this new funding opportunity is critical,%u201d Assistant Secretary of Quality Places Matt Godinez said. %u201cThese investments in our downtowns and small businesses will foster growth and drive economic vitality across the state.%u201dFor more information about the SIGNS grant, click here or contact Quality Places Manager Sara Bloom at Sara.Bloom@ks.gov or (785) 506-9278.Commerce Announces New Opportunity for Transformative Art in Public SpacesTOPEKA (4.1.2025) %u2013 The Kansas Department of Commerce today announced the launch of an innovative program to support the enhancements of often overlooked public infrastructure to help drive economic growth and community vitality. The Transformative Art for Public Spaces (TAPS) grant will invest in projects that leverage creative placemaking to attract visitors, encourage local investment, and support small businesses. A total of $150,000 will be available.%u201cThe TAPS grant program is about more than making every-day objects look more presentable,%u201d Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. %u201cHaving attractive public gathering spots encourages more people to utilize them, stay for longer periods of time, and spend more money at local establishments. These small investments will have long-term economic benefits for communities across the state.%u201dThe TAPS grant offers awardees amounts of $1,500 to $2,000 per project to cover materials, supplies and artist compensation. Interested applicants are encouraged to collaborate with local artists, students and community members by offering them opportunities to contribute creatively to their communities. Repurposing these mundane or unsightly objects will give the community assets that reflect local pride and long-term economic resilience.Approved and funded fixtures and overlooked structures include:%u2022 Electrical boxes%u2022 Fire hydrants%u2022 Trashcans%u2022 Water utilities%u2022 Other infrastructuresApplications will be accepted through December 5 or until funds are depleted. Priority will be given to projects in communities that have not received funding from Commerce during the previous 3 years.%u201cThe TAPS Grant is an exciting way to celebrate community identity while offering artists and residents the chance to make a lasting impact on their surroundings,%u201d Assistant Secretary of Quality Places Matt Godinez said. %u201cWe can%u2019t wait to see how these projects inspire collaboration and connections among our Kansas communities and residents.%u201dOrganizations may submit proposals for multiple projects within a single application, provided each project meets the program's guidelines. A maximum of five projects are allowed per applicant. Projects that will not be supported include:%u2022 Signs promoting businesses%u2022 Murals or large-scale wall installations