By Rich Larson
The Northfield Economic Development Authority is accepting applications for a new grant program aimed at helping downtown property and business owners improve their buildings.
The Historic Downtown Improvement Grant will pay for 30% of a project’s total cost. Grants range from $9,000 to $45,000, so eligible projects must cost at least $30,000. A project would need to cost $150,000 to qualify for the maximum award. Recipients must pay the remaining 70% themselves.
The program is open to buildings zoned C-1 between the east side of Highway 3 and the west side of Washington Street, from St. Olaf Avenue to Eighth Street. Building owners can apply. Commercial tenants can also apply if they have the property owner’s approval. For-profit and nonprofit organizations are both eligible, but properties must be current on property taxes.
City officials said the program is meant to “strengthen, revitalize and sustain the downtown.” The EDA will give priority to projects that:
- preserve historic buildings
- help businesses expand
- turn vacant space into usable space
- raise a building’s tax value
Applicants who have not received EDA or other public funding in the past two years will also get priority.
Eligible work includes masonry repair and tuckpointing, windows and doors, roofing, interior finishes, heating and cooling systems, electrical and plumbing upgrades, energy-efficiency improvements, and accessibility upgrades. Security systems, parking areas, fencing and most signs are not eligible.
The grant is a reimbursement program. Recipients must finish the work and pay for it before the city writes a check, and projects must be completed within 12 months of signing a grant agreement. Owners of more than one property can apply for a separate grant for each building.
The first round of applications closes at 5 p.m. Jan. 30, 2027. A second round is expected to open in early 2027. The EDA said it will review the program after both rounds and adjust it as needed.
Applicants are encouraged to talk with Emery John, the city’s community development program associate, before applying. John can be reached at 507-645-3070.
Rich Larson is the owner and General manager of KYMN Radio. Contact him at rich@kymnradio.net
