FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 21, 2016
MEDIA CONTACT: Scott Flagg, Iowa DNR, at 515-725 8318
or Scott.Flagg@dnr.iowa.gov
DES
MOINES-- Starting Aug. 1, Iowa communities with populations of 5,000 or smaller
can apply for special funding to inspect abandoned commercial buildings.
The
funds, from the DNR’s Derelict Building Grant Program, allow eligible communities
to investigate the amount of asbestos present in a building and determine the
physical characteristics and stability of these structures by completing
structural engineering assessments.
“If
a building collapses and the presence of asbestos is unknown, it can increase
the economic burden on the community,” said the DNR’s Scott Flagg. “In addition,
a building’s appearance may not reveal the actual condition of the structure. Building
assessments can assist communities determine how best to address an abandoned
building.”
The Derelict Building Grant Program
provides small communities and rural counties financial assistance for abandoned
commercial and public structures, which can improve the appearance of their
streets, revitalize local economies and alleviate the
environmental concerns these buildings can pose. Projects selected may apply
for funding in 2017 for additional program-related tasks.
For more
information and to obtain an application on the Derelict Building Grant Program,
contact Scott Flagg at 515-725-8318 or Scott.Flagg@dnr.iowa.gov.
No
applications will be accepted after 4 p.m. on Aug. 18.
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