In 2016/2017 HCDC issued a request for proposals to area organizations to submit project/programs that would give residents an opportunity to have direct input and influence into the improvement of the Center City Neighborhood. Projects could include (but were not limited to): physical improvements with a public benefit, additional public art projects and design for future capital improvements.

 

Eleven projects were awarded and completed:

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1. St. Paul’s Lutheran Church improved a vacant lot including landscaping, benches and signage. 

 

2. Citizen’s United revitalized a vacant lot and developed it into a wildlife garden with native vegetation.

 

3. The Levoy Theater provided vouchers to families that live in Center City to attend theater events.

 

4. Millville Public Library replaced 12 computers for both their children and adult computer classes.

 

5. The Riverfront Renaissance Center for the Arts held Creative Play Saturday’s at various locations throughout the neighborhood.

 

6. Help and Hope Ministries updated their equipment to better serve the well-balanced meals they provide to low-income families.

 

7. Bethel Development Corporation received funding to purchase supplies for their food services program.

 

8. Make and Move Club provided a STEM Summer Camp series for 36 Center City youth.

 

9. CCC Luthiery program worked with Center City youth to create banjos.

 

10. Millville Development Corporation installed 40 banners along High Street identifying the Glasstown Arts District.

 

11. The SHINE Program provided after-school activities for Center City youth including homework help.

 

A total of $80,000 NRTC funding was spent to implement these projects. The projects also leveraged an additional $56,382 in investment and over $20,6070 in volunteer time was donated to projects.