Grants Awarded to Four Excelsior Springs Businesses for Downtown Renewal

Four Excelsior Springs Businesses Receive Grants to Continue Downtown Revitalization

Excelsior Springs, MO—Four businesses in downtown Excelsior Springs have been awarded some pretty significant grants to preserve and revitalize their historic properties. Last month, the Downtown Excelsior Partnership, Inc. (DEP) announced the recipients of these prestigious grants, which will help preserve the architectural heritage and boost the community’s economic vitality.

Colonial Hotel and 311 S. Thompson Avenue Awarded Paul Bruhn Grant

The Colonial Hotel and 311 S. Thompson Avenue are the proud recipients of the Paul Bruhn Historic Revitalization subgrant, provided by Missouri Main Street Connection (MMSC) and the National Park Service. These grants support the restoration and securing of these iconic properties.

Colonial Hotel: A Historic Revival

The Colonial Hotel (330 E Broadway), a 1924 landmark that has been closed since 1979, has been awarded $45,000 to prevent further interior damage from water infiltration and other elements. Susan Blaser, the awardee, said the funding will be used to restore the roof, reconstruct the patio, and secure its 78 historic windows. Blaser and her family have some experience in restoring historic buildings downtown, as they also recently fully renovated 216 Spring Street and opened Casa Di VIte International Wine Cafe.

Once restored, Blaser plans to reopen the Colonial Hotel as a multi-unit short-term rental, boosting local tourism, creating jobs, and preserving an important piece of Excelsior Springs’ history.

311 S. Thompson Avenue: Future Home of Salty Swine Meats

The 311 S. Thompson property, a historic building dating back to 1913, has been awarded $50,000 for extensive repairs. Currently, there are plans for a new butcher shop called Salty Swine Meats in the old space. In his application, Marcus Mccreary, the recipient, said the funds will address significant issues, including windows, stucco, and masonry, and will allow him to push his project forward.

In an article produced by DEP, Mccreary expressed his gratitude for the award, stating, “We will be able to ensure that repairs are completed quickly and correctly to preserve a building that has been a part of our community for more than 100 years. The funds will also expedite the opening of a business in the space that is currently severely underutilized.”

Other Trails and Ray’s Lunch Receive Backing Small Businesses Enhancement Grant

American Express and Main Street America have awarded the 2024 Backing Small Businesses Enhancement Grant to Two Downtown Excelsior Springs Businesses: Other Trails and Ray’s Lunch. Each business will receive $10,000 to support its growth and development.

Ray’s Lunch: Enhancing a Local Favorite

Ray’s Lunch (231 E Broadway), a favorite local eatery, will use the grant to make further improvements to their establishment. Owners Morgan Newkirk and Dan Tota shared their excitement: “Dan and I feel so fortunate to have been selected for this grant. We’re excited to use this grant to continue making improvements to Ray’s Lunch so that it can thrive for years to come.” Dan said they currently have plans to put the funds towards repairs to the flooring in both the dining area and behind the counter.

Other Trails: A Hub for the Community

Other Trails Coffee and Goods (115 E Broadway Ave) has quickly become a downtown community hub offering a warm and inviting space for locals and visitors to grab a coffee or enjoy a treat. Jody and Linda Pasalich, along with their business Partner Phillip Scherer, said they plan to use the award to make upgrades to energy efficiency and improve their building’s overall appearance, focusing on the main entrance.

These grants will boost individual businesses and strengthen the local economy, building a more vibrant and prosperous community. Kudos to the grant recipients for their dedication to preserving our heritage and pursuing funding to make Excelsior Springs a better place for all.