Welcome to Ravenna

In March, The City of Ravenna was awarded a Community Development Block Grant- Coronavirus in the amount of $183,000 to benefit the Ravenna Senior Center. This grant is from the Nebraska Department of Economic Development and was from funding passed by the federal CARES Act (2020).

The purpose of the grant is to prepare and respond to a pandemic. Expanding capacity of the Ravenna Senior Center's food service program, as well as air quality, were the qualifiers and priorities for this project.

Work to be performed includes rehabilitating the building's foundation (before and during construction pictures are included to showcase the progress and difference), installation of an industrial grade air purifier, and replacement of flooring on the main level.

The Ravenna Economic Development Corporation prepared the grant application on behalf of the City of Ravenna. Because the Ravenna Senior Center building is owned by the City of Ravenna, this grant addresses a need that would become problematic later down the line and saves the city a significant amount of money as well as prepares the senior center in the event of a future pandemic. It will also make the building safer through eliminating carpet, improving air quality, and ensuring future structural integrity.

This update is part two of a four part series outlining the recent activities undertaken in Ravenna. Stay tuned for further updates throughout the week.

New playground equipment coming soon to Buffalo County Recreation Area: Ravenna Lake

Last fall, Buffalo County Facilities OMP Facilities Director Steve Gaasch sought bids and planning for new playground equipment. At a recent Ravenna Lake meeting consisting of county commissioners, Buffalo County Facilities staff, Ravenna Economic Development and Chamber directors, and Ravenna Area Vision Fund members, it was announced that the equipment has been ordered for a new playground.

Scheduled delivery for the playground equipment will be in May, with installation expected upon arrival. Framework for the playground will be constructed of wood, and a rubber mulch surface will be placed at the base of the playground.

The playground will be located near the horseshoe pits at the northwest side of the lake. The current playground equipment near the picnic shelter and bathhouse will not be torn down at this current time.