Focus on downtown revitalization in 2025 with NGage resources

Each new year brings a sense of renewal and a perfect time to examine one of the best economic engines a community can have – a thriving downtown. For Gage County, Nebraska, investing time and funds in revitalization projects can yield big dividends beyond the monetary, whether in its largest city of Beatrice or the numerous surrounding townships. Downtowns often capture the imagination of a community, meaning even minor investments can yield major results in perception for both residents and visitors. Using the tools and resources NGage provides can help shape planning discussions and the search for incentives. 

Why downtown revitalization matters

Downtown spaces are frequently a focal point of community nostalgia and historical commerce centers. Well-executed revitalization projects blend past and present to meet emerging community needs in an area with emotional and economic value. A Brookings Institute report explains the most successful downtown efforts promote walkability and include a blend of housing, shops, and restaurants. When economically feasible, entertainment and hotels are also in the mix. This blend makes downtown places to live, work, and play, with each element contributing tax revenue to fund future downtown improvements and overall growth in the community. 

Gage County’s commitment to downtown revitalization

A sizable federal grant will help downtown Beatrice check several of these redevelopment boxes in the coming years. A $21.4 million grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Transportation as part of the federal infrastructure bill will reroute U.S. 136 around Beatrice’s downtown core to create a more pedestrian-friendly space on Court Street. With safer pedestrian access, the downtown will be better positioned to host festivals and special events. Beatrice also plans to invest in holiday lights, public art, and mingling spaces with benches and landscaping. 
Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen recognized the substantial award for a highly competitive grant through the federal Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) program.

“I’m proud that Beatrice leaned into this opportunity and appreciate NDOT’s efforts to support them in making the project a reality. It’s a big win for Nebraska,” Pillen said in a press release. Additional fund uses include improving pedestrian and cyclist safety features. Construction should start within two years and take six to eight years to complete. The city of Beatrice will contract with an engineering firm to design the new route.

How to plan for downtown projects

Downtown investments can take many forms. Beatrice’s grant demonstrates that communities can receive sizable grants and other funding to launch major projects; however, this often follows smaller investments and planning. Start small and develop a strategic plan for downtown or Main Street growth. Identify projects easily accomplished with available resources, such as decorating campaigns or promotional events.

Assess local, state, or federal grant opportunities and develop an application submission plan. Many programs require matching funds. Tax-increment financing is a common tool downtowns use to fund projects, but other opportunities may exist, such as stacking grants with other outside funding sources.

NGage is here to help Gage County businesses and communities succeed with downtown growth and other economic development goals. Our incentives directory is an excellent place for businesses and communities to start a search. Contact us today for help with our tools and resources or to discuss your project.