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Greencastle facade work was part of the Stellar Grant downtown revitalization funds.
Joe Hren/WFIUA prominent grant that aims to improve quality of life in rural Indiana communities is changing its focus.
The Stellar Community Program has funneled nearly $90 million to Indiana cities and towns since 2011, but the state’s Office of Community and Rural Affairs decided it was time for a reset.
Officials say they want to align with Gov. Eric Holcomb’s goal for regionalism.
Under the new conditions, cities with fewer than 50,000 residents collaborating with neighboring communities can pitch four-year projects.
Deputy Director of Indiana’s Office of Community and Rural Affairs Matt Crouch says he’s confident the revised procedures will help regions realize their visions faster.
Crouch says he and other state officials realize these types of projects might require outside help. That’s why the state is encouraging qualifying regional applicants to receive mentorship from past Stellar recipients and utilize partners that include INDOT and state universities like Purdue and Ball State.
The Stellar Community Program pools funding from several state agencies to help communities execute plans that improve transportation, aesthetics and livability.
This year’s grant recipients will be announced Thursday, April 5.
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