At a special called meeting of the Norwood Town Council last week, the council passed a resolution to apply for state funds to improve the downtown area.

The resolution will allow staff to apply to the North Carolina Department of Commerce for a $900,000 grant for downtown revitalization and economic development. The application for the grant will go to the Rural Transformation Grant Fund, Rural Engagement and Investment Program, “in order to provide assistance to benefit The Town of Norwood Downtown Revitalization Streetscape Project.”

According to Town Administrator Scott Howard, the grant money would be used to bury power lines along Campbell Street, along with upfitting the town’s building for the proposed certified industrial kitchen. Funds would also be used to pave downtown parking lots.

The resolution stated the Norwood Town Council “fully supports the proposed Norwood Downtown Revitalization Streetscape project, which will result in:

1. Improved Pedestrian Access

2. Establish COVID-19 Safe Spaces

3. Reduce Environmental Hazards

4. Promote Cultural Preservation and Establish Town Brand.”