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.    In keeping with the goal of urban revitalization, the Streetscape Amenities Grant has been created to assist municipalities and Main Street/Elm Street-based programs in purchasing streetscape amenities such as banners and benches.  When coupled with larger streetscape projects, these items will visually enhance a community’s downtown. Eligible Organizations Lehigh County municipalities and Main Street/Elm Street-based Programs. Preference will be given to those Lehigh County applicants having a strategic plan in place which focuses on the improvement of hte downtown area and/or have previously received a Lehigh County Main Street Initiatives Planning Grant. 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 projected 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 Banners, benches, trash receptacles, planters and bicycle racks. Gateway signs, directional signage and informational kiosks. Mural projects. Street tree planting programs. 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