Sioux Falls neighborhood grants offer chance for local improvements

The city of Sioux Falls is making funding available soon for neighborhood-level improvements.

The 2025 Neighborhood Grant program will start accepting applications Nov. 26, with an informational meeting Nov. 25 for registered neighborhood participants to learn about the program, brainstorm project ideas and ask questions. Anyone interested in starting a registered neighborhood also is encouraged to attend.

The grant program provides annual funding to neighborhoods and watch groups registered with the city to complete noncapital projects that enhance a neighborhood’s livability and involvement, promote a strong sense of community and benefit the whole neighborhood. There are 56 neighborhood and watch groups that could apply for funding, which will total $125,000 for 2025.

“We have more registered neighborhood groups than ever, and this program is key to strengthening the livability of their neighborhood and connections with one another,” said Diane deKoeyer, the city’s neighborhood and preservation planner. “We have seen many creative projects over the years. It’s great to see neighbors working together.”

The grant program started in 2013 and is administered by the city’s Planning and Development Services Department. Grant awards can range for any amount, depending on the application, and can include projects that benefit children, community flower or vegetable gardens, identification signage or logo design, neighborhood cleanups, welcome kits and block parties, like National Night Out events. New to the program this year is tree replacement if homeowners are removing ash trees from their front or back yards. The grant program will help to cover the cost of a new tree.

The program budget for 2025 increased from previous years because of new neighborhoods and the inclusion of watch groups in the program.

The city encourages neighborhoods to participate in National Night Out, a nationwide public safety initiative held each year on the first Tuesday in August. National Night Out has grown in popularity with neighborhoods in Sioux Falls, and many host block parties with activities, food and other entertainment for the event. With the increase in funding, registered neighborhoods can apply for up to a $500 grant to help offset National Night Out or other block party costs.

The informational meeting will be from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Nov. 25 at the Downtown Library, 200 N. Dakota Ave. The deadline to apply is 5 p.m.  Feb. 7, and projects must be be completed by Oct. 10.

For additional information and to apply for the grant program, visit siouxfalls.gov/neighborhoods