(Spencer)– The Spencer Main Street program is one of 10 in the state to receive an Iowa Challege Grant for 2022. It’s the second year in a row the Spencer Main Street program has received the grant. This year’s award is $100,000, the maximum amount that can be applied for through the program. It’s a one-on-one matching grant through the Iowa Economic Development Authority.
Nancy Naeve of Spencer Main Street says the funds will go toward the renovation of three apartments above 301 Grand Avenue, along with improvements to the building’s facade. A local investment group recently purchased the buildings at 301 and 303 Grand Avenue and now own all of what’s known as the “Union Block Building” which houses The Butchery on Grand.
In 2021 the Hansen Building in downtown Spencer was awarded a $100,000 Main Street Iowa Challenge Grant to renovate a two story living area into three apartments. That project is still underway.
