he second round of funding for the 2013 Derelict Building Grants Program is open for applications through 4 p.m. February 1st. Earlier this year, 15 projects were approved for 2012 Derelict Building Grants, totaling $730,000 with cash matches totaling $561,000.

The Derelict Building Grants Program was instituted by statute to help rural communities with populations of 5,000 or less to deconstruct or renovate abandoned commercial and public structures. The program emphasizes reuse and recycling of building items, helps improve street appearance and commercial development, and alleviates the environmental concern these buildings can pose. Financial assistance includes asbestos removal, building deconstruction and renovation, and other inspections and site assessments. A cash match is required.

Funding is awarded annually on a competitive basis. A committee from the Iowa DNR, Iowa Society of Solid Waste Operations, Iowa Recycling Association, Iowa Economic Development Authority and Keep Iowa Beautiful selects the projects for funding. The Environmental Protection Commission’s approval is required for all projects costing more than $25,000.

Out of the 15 projects, one approved applicant withdrew from the Derelict Building Grant Program and two other projects are currently on hold.

Guthrie Center in Guthrie County asked for assistance with asbestos abatement and deconstruction of a vacant commercial building to market the site for future commercial interest. The city, working with an Iowa Waste Exchange representative, was able to locate, reuse markets and achieve a diversion rate of 77 percent and a landfill disposal savings of $10,710.

For more information about the grant program, application forms, and resources, visit the website at www.iowadnr.gov/Environment/LandStewardship/WasteManagement/DerelictBuildingProgram.aspx.

You can also obtain information from DNR Media Contact Scott Flagg at 515-281-4876 or Scott.Flagg@dnr.iowa.gov.