HASTINGS, Neb. – The city of Hastings is looking to increase the area downtown currently receiving funds from Nebraska Department of Economic Development block grants. 

The current area currently encompasses downtown buildings from N Lexington Ave to Colorado Ave (west to east) and from W 1st St. to W 4th St. (south to north)

The proposed addition to the current boundaries (shown below) includes several buildings to the north boundary of W 4th St., including to the old Hastings Middle School building at 714 W 5th St. 

According to the Nebraska Department of Economic Development, Hastings has been awarded $1.45 million in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds for Downtown Revitalization over the past 10 years.

Use of these grants has produced 11 façade/building renovation projects, 13 new businesses, 26 new owner-occupied or rental loft apartments, and 2 parking lot renovations.

According to city council documents, the proposed change to the CDBG boundaries in Hastings have been discussed with DED officials, but a change can only be approved by the DED after an approving vote from the Hastings City Council. 

If approved by the Hastings City Council and the DED, buildings in the rezoned area could use funding given to the city under the CDBG Downtown Revitalization project. 

The Hastings City Council will meet Tuesday evening at 6:00 p.m. at the Hastings Municipal Airport. 

Black is the current zoning boundaries, while the blue area is the proposed expansion area.
Black is the current zoning boundaries, while the blue area is the proposed expansion area. City of Hastings