Bowling Green, Ky. – October 21, 2026 – The Bowling Green City Commission approved $21,500 in funding for seven projects through the City's new Downtown Improvements Grant (DIG) Matching Funds Program during last night’s meeting. The grants represent the first round of awards through the program, which was announced in July 2026 to encourage private investment and enhance the appearance, functionality, safety, and overall experience of Downtown Bowling Green.
Administered by the City's Neighborhood & Community Services Department, the program provides financial assistance to commercials businesses, developers, tenants, and property owners undertaking improvements that strengthen Downtown's infrastructure, aesthetics, amenities, and sense of place. The City received 24 applications requesting a combined $110,284 in funding, demonstrating significant interest in reinvestment throughout Downtown. A review committee of City staff from multiple Neighborhood & Community Services divisions evaluated applications based on project impact, visibility, and feasibility. These seven projects were recommended and approved by City Commission:
- Shake Rag Barbershop – $3,000 – safety and beautification efforts to improve its parking lot; including new security lights and a camera, landscaping, and parking stops.
- White Squirrel Brewery – $3,500 – exterior property improvements to clean up the building and prepare for more projects.
- Mellow Mushroom – $3,000 – its mural project on the exterior of its new to-go addition to its restaurant, which was also recently renovated.
- The Food School – $2,500 – soundproofing its classroom at the Houchens Small Business Accelerator.
- Atomic Kitchen – $3,000 – livening up Hot Rod Alley with 1980s pop culture character statues at Stadium Park Plaza.
- 904 State Street – $3,000 – restoring its historic façade on Fountain Square to resemble its turn of the 20th century look based on original photos.
- Candle Makers on the Square – $3,500 – for window replacements and signage refresh on the historic façade on Fountain Square.
The program operates with a $40,000 annual budget, divided between fall and spring funding cycles. Applicants are required to provide a dollar-for-dollar financial match, ensuring City funding is complemented by private investment. Recipients have one year to complete or at least begin the project, depending on its scope.
With the required matching contributions, these seven projects represent at least $108,500 in combined public and private investment in Downtown Bowling Green. The projects reflect a diverse range of improvements, from historic preservation and building enhancements to public art and improvements supporting local business operations. The program is designed to encourage property owners and entrepreneurs to make impactful investments in Downtown while supporting the City's broader goals of economic development, neighborhood revitalization, and creating an attractive, welcoming environment for residents, businesses, and visitors.
The next application period for the Downtown Improvements Grant Program will open February 15, 2027, and close March 15, 2027. Businesses and property owners who were not selected during the inaugural funding cycle are encouraged to review program guidelines, refine their proposed projects, and consider applying again during the spring cycle.
The Downtown BGKY and City social media will be showcasing the Before and After images of these projects as they come to life.
The City remains committed to supporting reinvestment in Downtown Bowling Green and building upon the momentum of continued private development, historic preservation, and community improvements. For additional information about the Downtown Improvements Grant Program, contact the City's Neighborhood & Community Services Department at 270-393-3617.
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