Franklin Avenue Library - Construction Work

Due to a scheduled project, the south drive, pickup window, and book drop will be inaccessible at the Franklin Avenue Library from Friday, September 27 through Sunday, September 29. Parking will be limited in the east lot. The library will remain open for normal hours.

South Side Library Open Through Construction

The South Side Library will be open today for normal hours as concrete work continues today and likely tomorrow. Patrons will need to enter the library parking lot through the pool's parking lot off of Porter Avenue. We apologize for any inconvenience. 

City of Des Moines Block Challenge Ion Overview

Program Type:

Library Meeting

Age Group:

Adults

Event Details

Building Strong Neighborhoods: Block Challenge Grant and Improving Our Neighborhoods Programs

The City of Des Moines is revitalizing neighborhoods through two unique programs: Block Challenge Grant Program and Improving Our Neighborhoods (ION).

The Block Challenge Grant (BCG) Program builds community and neighborhood identity through a collaborative approach to home improvement. The BCG Program requires people to team up with their neighbors to receive financial assistance on exterior home projects. Teams of 5 to 19 households can apply to receive a 50% matching grant from the City – up to $2,500 per household depending on team size – to complete eligible exterior improvements, and qualification is not based on income.

The Improving Our Neighborhoods (ION) Program strives to keep residents in their homes through a City-funded home and property repair assistance program. The ION Program provides assistance to applicants at or below 80% Area Median Income based on annual HUD statistics. Like BCG, ION funds exterior repairs and improvements, but unlike BCG, the financial support received depends on the condition of the home and qualifications of the applicant.

Attend this session with City staff to learn more about these programs.