TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) – Approximately $40 million will be distributed for new state parks, attractions and multi-unit housing opportunities for the elderly and disabled in Kansas.
The Kansas Department of Commerce announced on Tuesday, Jan. 31 that $40 million will be made available under the ARPA Building Opportunities for the Disabled and Elderly and State Park Revitalization and Investment in Notable Tourism grant programs.
KDOC indicated that the ABODE program will provide $10 million for new construction and renovation projects of affordable multi-family homes for people with disabilities and seniors. He said SPRINT will distribute $30 million for investments in regional tourism businesses and state parks.
The Department noted that the funds were designated by the Kansas Executive Committee on Strengthening People and Revitalization and approved by the state Finance Board.
“To continue our historic growth path, we must continue to invest in quality-of-life assets,” said Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland. “Providing quality housing to all Kansans and developing attractive regional tourist destinations will help us build strong and inviting communities across the state.”
According to KDOC, ABODE applications can include health and safety renovations of existing buildings or construction projects for new multi-family homes for the elderly or disabled. Project design, engineering costs and architectural designs are also eligible expenses. Winners will be given two years to complete their projects and use the full amount of funds awarded. Eligible applicants include:
- Residential real estate developers
- Non-profit organizations in good standing with the state of Kansas
- County and local government units
- Existing entities that provide specifically designed housing for the elderly and people with disabilities
- Public housing bodies
KDOC has also stated that SPRINT applications can include, but are not limited to the following:
- Infrastructure improvements, capital projects, renovations
- Construction, engineering and architecture, design, inspections and environmental assessments
- Refurbishment and repair of internal and external structures, roads and service links adjacent to the project site
- Development of public land to create a tourist destination
- Costs associated with the recruitment of new permanent and semi-permanent exhibitions
- National Museum Affiliation Application Costs
Meanwhile, the Department noted that eligible SPRINT candidates include:
- Kansas State Parks
- Conventions and Visitor Bureaus
- County and local government units
- Museums
- Convention Centers
- Centers for the performing arts
- Places of entertainment
- Other tourism-oriented tourism enterprises and agencies
KDOC said applications open at 2:00pm on Tuesday and will close at 11:59pm on Monday, February 27.
Applicants should contact [email protected] with questions about the funding opportunity.
