PUBLIC PARTICIPATION GRANT
There are numerous (non-profit or government owned) historic structures in our community that are in need of renovation work (i.e. historic churches, community buildings, theatres, and schools).
Three applications were selected as the finalists for the 2021 Public Participation Grant!
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The funding for this unique grant program is made possible by the donors of Historic Columbus’ 50th Anniversary Capital Campaign – Save Me A Place. Each of these organizations and their projects is important to our community and their historic resources are worthy of preservation. Every vote is important because the project with the most votes will win $100,000 to make their project possible. Help us celebrate preservation in Columbus!
The public will then be able to vote on their favorite project on our website via the button below. Voting will start on October 11th and close at 11:59 PM October 16th. The grant winner will be announced during a special episode of Tuesdays with Justin on Tuesday, October 26th.
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Tune in to our social media channels to meet the winner!
WE ARE EXCITED TO ANNOUNCE OUR THREE FINALISTS!
Fourth Street Towers – 502 Third Avenue
Fourth Street Towers has a long-standing history of being committed to reinvesting in the community by providing affordable housing for low- to moderate-income families. Fourth Street Towers was one of the first community housing development organizations in Columbus. The proposed renovation project is a single-family home that will be used to fulfill the organization’s mission. The historic property is located within the boundaries of the Columbus Historic District. Currently, it is in need of extensive renovation and repair. This property can once again become a gift to the street and provide much-needed affordable housing for families within our community.
1.
National Infantry Museum World War II Company Street
The Selective Service Act of 1940 specified that no one could be sworn into military service unless the government made adequate provisions for shelter and other human needs. Because of the Act, the War Department moved to construct temporary buildings called the 700 Series plans. More than 100,000 soldiers entered the Army at Fort Benning during this time. Nationally, more than 6,000,000 soldiers trained in 700 Series buildings, which were constructed to be used for five to twenty years. However, after the war ended in 1945, the need to continue training more soldiers continued and the buildings were still in need. In the 1990s, Fort Benning was told that all 700 Series buildings should be demolished. The National Infantry Museum was able to persuade the Army to rescue seven of the 700 Series buildings. They are now a large part of the outdoor exhibits at the museum. They are the only set of 700 Series buildings existing in the southeastern region. The repair needed for the building is roof replacement.
2.
The Wynn House, c. 1839
The Wynn House is a Greek Revival mansion that has been lived in by a number of Columbus’ leading citizens. In 1958, a new purpose for the Wynn House was developed from the vision of Jim Woodruff. It would become not only significant for its architecture and booming presence on the landscape, but more importantly for its ability to serve our community. The Wynn House provides Columbus with a unique venue tied to the history of our town from the planning of the area known as Wynnton to the development of the surrounding historic neighborhood of Overlook. The grant would fund updating and renovating the two upstairs bathrooms. The purpose is to provide an improved experience for rentals and to generate additional income for the house to continue its preservation. The Wynn House will host an Open House event on Tuesday, October 12th from 4:00 - 6:00 PM for the public to view the space.
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