Fairbury looking to apply for downtown revitalization funding

FAIRBURY - The City of Fairbury is considering revitalizing its downtown.

Local leaders are looking to apply for grant funds through the Nebraska Department of Economic Development. This year, Fairbury has $400,000 available for such grants. That's according to the Southeast Nebraska Development District (SENDD).

Residents are being asked questions about the downtown area on a survey. Surveys were sent out via email by the Fairbury Chamber of Commerce, and are available on the city website.

Surveys need to be completed by Aug. 14.

Fairbury city administrator Collin Bielser says keeping up the downtown's historic value, while also keeping buildings safe and up to date, is the top priority.

"One thing that's really unique about Fairbury is its downtown square and the courthouse," Bielser said. "It's really picturesque and not every downtown has something so bucolic. I think it's important to maintain that atmosphere, that environment and that look."

The survey asks Fairbury residents to rate the downtown's appearance, what they think it needs and what they’d like to see changed or improved.

The deadline to apply for a revitalization grant is Sept. 15.