Village of Clearwater receives planning grant

The Village of Clearwater received good news Thursday.

Nebraska Department of Economic Development notified village officials it will be the recipient of a Community Development Block Grant to spearhead downtown revitalization planning.

Up to $53,000 will be awarded, with a $5,000 commitment coming from village funds.

Five Rule Rural Planning, of Kearney, will work with community members and village officials to complete the plan. Phase one of the project is expected to take place this month during an organizational meeting. A date for the meeting has not been announced.

Clearwater economic development director, Lauren Sheridan-Simonsen, said the grant will allow the village to continue to invest in its future.

"Amid 10 new businesses, five business transitions and two business expansions in the last five years, Clearwater (leaders) know the importance of supporting local entrepreneurs. Growing the downtown district to attract new businesses and improve the great businesses in place will bring more people to town," she said. "Clearwater is calling you home."