Renton, WA

Now begins the first round of grants for the 2008 Neighborhood Grant Program.

A total of $50,000 in grant funds is available to residents who plan and implement projects for the purpose of improving the viability and livability of their neighborhoods. Eligible organizations include organized neighborhood associations that draw membership from a commonly recognized geographic neighborhood in Renton, or ad hoc groups of neighbors who form an organization to work on a specific project.

Eligible projects include physical improvements that build or enhance a feature of the neighborhood or benefit the general public. Projects to produce and distribute newsletters are also eligible for neighborhood grants.

The amount of matching funds allocated to a neighborhood is based on a project’s merit and will be determined by the Renton City Council. Potential grant projects are evaluated and selected based on a series of criteria including planning, neighborhood support, “sweat equity,” need, final project maintenance, and benefit to the general public. There is no limit on the amount of matching funds available per grant project. The typical grant award is $3,000 - $5,000 per project.

Examples of neighborhood projects eligible for funds include:

* Improvements and/or identity signage for neighborhood entries and gateways
* landscaping of traffic islands and streetscapes
* beautification of trails or play areas
* neighborhood clean-up
* community gardens
* projects that involve and/or benefit youth
* newsletters
* neighborhood events

For more information about applying for a neighborhood grant, come to a workshop on January 23rd at City Hall, 7th floor, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Grant applications are due by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, February 29, 2008. Awards will be announced in April 2008.

You can download the application in PDF format from this link for the neighborhood grant or this link for the newsletter grant. For more assistance contact Norma McQuiller, Neighborhood Coordinator, at 425-430-6595.