By 1812Blockhouse
Mansfield is poised for a boost to its downtown living options, with plans underway to channel $250,000 in grant funding into the new Famico’s Place, located at 175 N. Mulberry Street (see below on Google Maps) The grant, awarded by the Richland County Foundation, is earmarked for the first phase of renovations aimed at upgrading upper residential areas within the building, a project expected to align with the broader goals of the city’s Downtown Development Incentive Program.
Grant Funding Set to Transform 175 N. Mulberry Street
The $250,000 grant, funded through the Richland County Foundation, is part of a targeted investment to rejuvenate downtown Mansfield. The planned renovations at Famico’s Place will mark the start of Phase 1, focusing on enhancing the upper resident living spaces to attract more people to the area. The project highlights Mansfield’s commitment to revitalizing its downtown through strategic development and by increasing residential availability.
The Downtown Development Incentive Program, through which this funding is allocated, aims to stimulate growth and renewal of existing structures, while also encouraging new builds that bring fresh life to the heart of Mansfield. City officials hope that by providing grants like these, Mansfield can spur economic growth, create a vibrant urban lifestyle, and meet the increasing demand for housing downtown.
Mansfield City Council to Review Ordinances Tuesday Night
On Tuesday night, two critical ordinances related to the project will go before Mansfield City Council. The first ordinance proposes the formal acceptance of the Richland County Foundation grant, ensuring the funds are allocated specifically for the Famico’s Place renovations. The second ordinance seeks council approval for the expenditure, authorizing up to $250,000 (minus administrative expenses) from the Community Development Grant fund to move forward with the renovations.
These council approvals represent the final steps in unlocking the grant funding and officially setting the wheels in motion for the Famico’s Place redevelopment. If passed, the ordinances will clear the way for KNWV Unlimited Enterprises, LLC, the entity overseeing the development, to begin work on transforming the building’s residential spaces.
Boosting Downtown Housing Options
With this initiative, Mansfield aims to set a new standard for downtown living, meeting a rising demand for housing options in a walkable, accessible urban environment. City officials have underscored that one of the primary goals of the Downtown Development Incentive Program is to foster a thriving residential community in Mansfield’s core, a move they believe will bring a steady flow of foot traffic, increase support for local businesses, and create a bustling downtown atmosphere.
Should the ordinances pass as expected, Mansfield could see additional projects inspired by this initiative, building a more appealing and economically robust city core. Famico’s Place is set to be a prime example of how focused investment and community-driven support can rejuvenate downtown areas, attracting both residents and visitors to central Mansfield.
Source, Image: City of Mansfield
