The City of Portage Neighborhood & Community Enhancement Program is intended to fund public space project proposals submitted by resident groups, non-profit organizations and neighborhood and/or business associations. “The Neighborhood & Community Enhancement Program was developed by the Portage Planning Commission and offers a unique opportunity for neighborhood groups to partner with the City of Portage on public space projects to improve the quality of life in our community,” said Community Development Director, Vicki Georgeau.
Examples of project proposals may include improvements that promote places for community members to gather, community art projects, sidewalk or trail enhancements, new street trees or street lighting, gateway signage or landscaping, community gardens, or other creative improvements. Funding for up to two projects is available in the City of Portage Capital Improvement Program (CIP) during the 2019-2020 fiscal year. CIP-funded projects must be located on public property and have a minimum cost of $10,000.
Since up to two project proposals may be implemented, selecting the proposals for funding involves a competitive process, giving preference to projects that:
- Enhance neighborhood/community appearance
- Enhance neighborhood health and safety
- Promote a greater sense of community
- Address a known neighborhood deficiency
- Complement other neighborhood improvements
- Promote social interaction
- Positively impact a significant number of residents
- Have longevity greater than ten years
Completed application forms must be submitted no later than October 1, 2019. Project proposals will subsequently be reviewed by the Planning Commission during the fall of 2019. In early 2020, projects will be selected for implementation. The selected project(s) should be completed by June 30, 2020. While the city will complete the public space improvements, ongoing engagement with the applicant will be essential for a successful project.
Click here for additional details and to obtain an application. For further information or assistance concerning the Neighborhood & Community Enhancement Program, please contact the City of Portage Department of Community Development at 329-4477.
