Westfield Launches Neighborhood Grant Program
Westfield is launching a Neighborhood Vibrancy Grant program that opens the doors to funding and innovative ideas to make the community a more vibrant place to live, and will positively impact the quality of life throughout the city. “Our community has seen the development of numerous new neighborhoods in recent years, yet we also acknowledge the presence of several aging areas,” Westfield Mayor Scott Willis said. “We hope these grant funds will assist in rejuvenating neighborhood entrances and shared spaces.”
The NVG program offers a 2-to-1 matching grant, providing up to $10,000 per project. Funding will be awarded two times per calendar year, with applications accepted on a rolling basis. Homeowners’ associations and neighborhood groups within Westfield city limits are encouraged to apply.
The NVG program is designed to fund projects that offer visible community improvements and significant neighborhood benefits. Potential projects range from environmental and landscape enhancements to recreation and neighborhood amenities. For example, neighborhoods can apply for grants to transform high-maintenance lawns into lush native plant areas, create butterfly and wildlife habitat corridors, or install rain gardens. Community garden projects and tree mitigation efforts are also encouraged.
On the recreation side, communities may seek funding for trail repairs, park improvements such as benches and shelters, or installing solar lighting to brighten public spaces. Projects that improve neighborhood connectivity or enhance alternative transportation infrastructure are also eligible for support.
Applicants interested in participating must meet a few key requirements, including a completed application, detailed information about the project, and its budget and anticipated timeline. The NVG committee will evaluate applications by considering factors such as the neighborhood’s age, the sustainability and innovation of the proposed project, and its overall visibility and potential impact. Recommendations will be forwarded to the Board of Public Works for final approval.
For the first round, applications will be accepted through March 1, with awards announced on April 1. If funds remain, the second round of applications will run from May 1 to July 1, with awards announced on August 1. Full details can be found at westfieldin.gov/neighborhoodgrant.