The City of Lebanon is set to receive a significant boost in its downtown revitalization efforts, thanks to $621,705.45 in grant funding from Boone County’s 180 Makeover program.
This substantial financial support will be distributed among five key buildings in Lebanon, facilitating various improvements and fostering economic growth.
Grant Recipients and Projects:
- Boone County Cake Company (109 W. Main Street)
- Grant Amount: $24,275.50
- The established business will use the funds to construct a new patio, enhancing its outdoor seating area and customer experience.
- Collier’s Corner Building (126 S. Lebanon Street)
- Grant Amount: $149,000
- The funding will cover various improvements to this historic building, contributing to the preservation and modernization of downtown Lebanon.
- Eichman Exchange Building (124-126 N. Lebanon Street)
- Grant Amount: $150,000
- Owned by the City’s Redevelopment Commission, this building will undergo significant upgrades, ensuring its continued role in the community’s economic and social activities.
- Lido Building (124 S. Lebanon Street)
- Grant Amount: $149,000
- This grant will support multiple enhancements, revitalizing the property and adding to the vibrancy of the downtown area.
- Oaks on Main (222 E. Main Street)
- Grant Amount: $147,429.95
- Set to open as an events and coffee house in late 2024 or early 2025, this new business will use the funds for a new HVAC system, creating a comfortable and welcoming environment for future patrons.
The 180 Makeover program is an initiative of the 180 Alliance, funded through READI 1.0, and includes Boone, Hendricks, Johnson, Montgomery, Morgan, and Putnam Counties, excluding Zionsville and Greenwood. Boone County has approximately $1.2 million available through this program, with additional projects in Whitestown and Jamestown set to be announced soon.
Anticipated Timeline and Community Impact:
Invitations to bid on the improvement projects are expected to be released later this summer, with all work scheduled for completion by the end of 2025. These grants also come with private matches, further amplifying the investment in Lebanon’s downtown.
“Receiving $621,705.45 in 180 Makeover grants will create even more momentum for downtown Lebanon,” said Lebanon Mayor Matt Gentry. “These projects will help preserve and restore our historic buildings and further stimulate investment and amenities in our community. The improvements to these five key properties will be an accelerator for the ongoing redevelopment and revitalization; creating a lively and prosperous downtown for all to enjoy.”
“We are eager to work with our municipalities on the 180 Makeover program for Boone County,” said Boone EDC CEO Molly Whitehead. “The Boone EDC is dedicated to driving positive change and growth in Lebanon. Downtowns are the heart of our community, and through these grants, we aim to create more opportunities for small businesses and entrepreneurs to grow and succeed.”