The city of Burlington is eyeing another downtown improvement.
Officials are working with the Southeast Iowa Regional Planning Commission to apply for a state COVID-19 Community Development Block Grant designated to improve public spaces.
They will apply for the maximum amount of $500,000 to resurface the alleyway between Third and Fourth streets from Columbia Street to the railroad tracks near Market Street.
“As we have ongoing improvements and continued growth in downtown Burlington, this would just provide an additional level for people to use this pedestrian alley,” said Jordan Frahm, regional planner for the commission.
Frahm said there is always a need for improved public spaces where residents can gather, and this project would promote economic activity downtown as well.
Plans call for outdoor furniture, public art, and lighting in the alleyway near Jefferson Street.
The cost of construction and materials would be covered by the grant.
If the grant is awarded, work would begin soon, as the project would need to be complete by next summer.
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