Applications are now being accepted for the sixth round of Broome County’s Small Community Fund grant program. This year, with the support of American Rescue Plan funding, more than $1 million was budgeted for community improvement projects; a fifth round of grants was awarded earlier this year in which 28 projects were funded. The Small Community Fund is available to municipalities, non-profits, and local economic development entities that are working on projects that complement Broome County’s Comprehensive Plan.
“The Small Community Fund is helping local governments and organizations make investments they couldn’t otherwise,” said Broome County Executive Jason Garnar. “Enhancements to public safety, infrastructure upgrades, and improving recreation have all been made possible with this fund. I appreciate the commitment of the Broome County Legislature to this program which has had impacts on every corner of the County.”
“The Small Community Fund has provided significant support for our local municipalities and non-profit organizations,” said Broome County Legislature Chairman & 5th District Legislator Dan J. Reynolds. “The strategic investments we’ve made through these grants have enhanced public safety, recreation and economic development."
Since it was created in 2018, the Small Community Fund has supported nearly 90 projects throughout the County. Most grants range from $1,200 to $30,000, with the average grant being approximately $15,000. Some notable projects include a new space for GiGi’s Playhouse at the Oakdale Commons, equipment for Eastern Broome EMS, improvements to the Town of Chenango Town Hall, ADA upgrades for various municipalities, trail enhancements at the IBM Glen, and gymnasium renovations at the Tabernacle United Methodist Church.
While open to all applicants that meet the stated criteria, the fund is intended to help smaller communities with projects that may not be eligible for alternate funding sources. The emphasis of the Small Community Fund will be on projects which address the goals of the comprehensive plan. More information on Broome County’s Comprehensive Plan can be found here.
Information regarding the Small Community Fund, guidelines, and how to apply can be found on the County Planning Department’s website. Applications are due by October 11th at 4:00 PM and should be returned to Beth Lucas via email, communitygrants@broomecountyny.gov, or by mail: PO Box 1766, Broome County Office Building, Binghamton, NY 13902.
