Kansas Department of Commerce
TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland announced that the Department of Commerce has awarded $362,000 through the Emergency Historic Asset Lifeline (E-HEAL) program. These funds will support five downtown revitalization projects for buildings facing likely demolition or collapse.
“Through the E-HEAL program we have preserved historic buildings across Kansas that would have been lost due to unforeseen events,” Toland said. “These funds not only save these unique spaces but resurrect them into new and refreshed businesses that drive economic growth and instill a greater sense of community pride throughout the state.”
The E-HEAL program addresses urgent needs in rural communities by stabilizing and rehabilitating historic downtown buildings that are facing imminent loss, are causing damage to surrounding buildings and/or have structural issues due to fire, storm damage or other emergencies. These investments aim to convert vacant or damaged properties into vibrant community assets, including spaces for small businesses, childcare centers, housing, arts and cultural spaces, or entrepreneurial ventures.
The E-HEAL projects include:
• Stockton: $100,000 – Renovation of the Historic Exchange Bank Building will bring three distinct businesses back to Main Street, including a restaurant and bar, retail store, and residential units.
“Every small town in Kansas has a story to tell, and our downtown buildings are part of that story,” Office of Rural Prosperity Director Trisha Purdon said. “Through E-HEAL, we’re helping communities protect those stories while creating new chapters of opportunity and growth.”
To learn more about the HEAL program, visit here.