KS Dept. of Commerce
TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland announced the Kansas Department of Commerce has awarded more than $1.5 million in Historic Economic Asset Lifeline (HEAL) funding to support 19 projects revitalizing downtown buildings across the state. When matched with more than $6.4 million in local contributions, this round of HEAL funding brings the total investment to approximately $7.9 million.
“Our rural communities are some of the best places to be in Kansas — and it’s because we are intentional with how we invest in them and how we want them to grow,” Toland said. “By revitalizing our historic buildings, we can create spaces that drive community growth and bring in new economic opportunities for the entire state.”
By providing matching grants through a competitive process, HEAL helps communities transform vacant spaces into thriving hubs for businesses, housing, childcare, arts, civic activities and entrepreneurship. These awards are designed to breathe new life into rural downtown districts. In doing so, HEAL fosters reinvestment, encourages community engagement and boosts the overall economic health of Kansas communities.
“Since 2021, the HEAL program has helped transform 96 buildings in rural Kansas, generating economic opportunity, creating new jobs and strengthening the vitality of our downtown areas,” Office of Rural Prosperity Director Trisha Purdon said. “This group of projects will save buildings in some of the smallest communities in Kansas.”
The HEAL awards in this round will be utilized for a wide variety of projects, including:
- Admire, Last Chance Arcade – $35,000: Awarded to North Lyon County Senior Center, a 120-year-old building in downtown is being transformed into a retro arcade, featuring over 60 classic games. As one of the oldest buildings downtown, its revitalization will preserve local history while creating a vibrant, intergenerational gathering place. This project strives to be the largest arcade between Kansas City and Wichita, drawing visitors and new life to the area.
- Garnett, Gym – $100,000: Awarded to City of Garnett, an established Kansas gym is expanding, with a second 24/7 fitness facility in the heart of downtown. Located in one of the city’s largest historic buildings, the space will undergo structural and interior renovations to include a state-of-the-art gym and a dedicated “kid zone.” This project will increase daily foot traffic, energize the downtown district, and serve as a hub for community engagement.
- Sharon Springs, Upper Story Housing – $100,000: Awarded to the City of Sharon Springs, the upper level of two adjoining 1911 buildings in downtown will be brought back to life, after sitting vacant for over two decades. Informed by the Wallace County Housing Assessment Tool (HAT), the renovation will convert the space into much-needed housing options, including potential apartments or short-term rentals. This project honors the community’s heritage while addressing a critical local need.
- Wilson, Weber & Peirano Building (Façade Grant) – $40,000: Awarded to Wilson Tourism Hub, the historic 1904 building will undergo essential façade improvements to restore its original charm and support its role as a cornerstone of community life. Home to a mercantile, art gallery and shared workspace studio, the building continues to foster creativity, entrepreneurship and tourism at a prominent downtown corner.
To view the full list of HEAL awardees, click here.