The Department of Community and Economic Development is the interface to the community, the twenty-five municipalities in Lehigh County, our neighboring counties and the economic development partners in the region.  The department was restructured in January of 2006 to promote the economic development and well-being of the communities by focusing on urban revitalization, regional partnerships, job creation initiatives, housing programs, grant management and quality of life initiatives.    Having a comprehensive downtown or master plan that a community can implement is a critical element in the economic development and revitalization process.  In order to aid in this effort, funding to develop these types of plans has been made available through the Planning Grant program. Eligible Organizations Lehigh County municipalities and Main Street/Elm Street-based Programs.  Grant Amount  Applicants may apply for grants up to $15,000.00. Grantees must expend the funds and Lehigh County will reimburse upon proof of expenditure (invoices and copies of cancelled checks). Required Match Lehigh County will fund up to 50% of the planning costs.  The match by the applicant may not include any funds received from other Lehigh County sources, including Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding.    Eligible Activities Economic development or revitalization plans. Comprehensive community development plans. Environmental or physical development strategy or specialized study. Implementation ordinance regulating land use, land development, or environmental protection. Application Deadline Round 1 Applications must be received by 4 p.m.- February 26, 2010 Round 2 Applications must be received by 4 p.m.- August 6, 2010