IDNR Accepting Applications for Derelict Buildings Grant Program

Cities with fewer than 5,000 in population are eligible to apply for funding through the Derelict Building Program. Administered by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), the program works with eligible communities to address neglected structures that have been vacant for at least six months. Each project must have a landfill diversion component through the recycling and reuse of materials. Established in 2011, the program has assisted 118 communities, diverted more than 72,000 tons of materials and saved more than $2.7 million in landfill disposal costs. Funding assistance is available for a variety of projects, including asbestos inspection and abatement, structural engineering analysis, environmental site assessment, building renovation and building deconstruction. Funding is awarded on a competitive basis. Grant applications must be filed with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) by February 25. Additional information and the application form can be found on IDNR’s website.