Power Forward grants support community center and park upgrades

Heartland Energy recently invested in two customer communities by providing funding for community projects.

Through the Power Forward program, Heartland provides grants for projects that will optimize electric energy use at city facilities. 

Heartland recently awarded a grant to Estelline for improvements at their city park, and White for upgrades at the local community center.

Estelline, SD

The Estelline Area Economic Development Corporation is continuing efforts to improve Gazebo Park.

A $5,000 Power Forward grant from Heartland Energy will support the installation of decorative lighting throughout the park, including three light poles along the park walkway and two additional garden power pedestals. Each light pole will include electrical outlets to provide permanent power for community events and seasonal decorations.

The new lighting will improve visibility and pedestrian safety during evening hours while making the park a more welcoming place for residents and visitors. The added electrical infrastructure will also support concerts, holiday celebrations, festivals, farmers markets and other community activities without the need for temporary extension cords or generators.

Gazebo Park serves as a central gathering place for Estelline, and the improvements are part of the community’s vision to make the park a centerpiece of downtown.

“Projects like this show how small improvements can make a big difference in how a community uses and enjoys its public spaces,” said Heartland Energy Chief Communications Officer Ann Hyland. “We’re pleased to support Estelline’s efforts to make Gazebo Park a safer, more inviting place for residents and visitors.”

The project is expected to extend the park’s usability beyond daylight hours, encourage greater community activity and support downtown economic development by creating a more attractive gathering space near Main Street businesses.

White, SD

The City of White is taking steps to modernize the McKnight Community Center and ensure the facility continues to serve the community for years to come.

Heartland Energy recently awarded the city a $5,000 Power Forward grant to support the project.

The improvements are part of a larger two-phase project to remodel and modernize the facility. Phase One focuses on the kitchen and bringing it in line with current health and safety standards. The Power Forward grant will be used to purchase new energy efficient refrigerators and upgrade the electrical service to better support modern equipment.

A second phase, planned for 2027-28, will focus on repairs and modernization of the event room including cosmetic improvements and potentially HVAC upgrades. 

The improvements will benefit both local organizations and residents who use the facility for events.

A safer, more functional kitchen and upgraded electrical service will provide a better environment for organizations preparing and serving food for fundraisers, while also making the facility more accommodating for weddings, banquets, meetings and other community events.

“The goal is to make the McKnight Community Center a community asset that remains relevant into the future,” the city said in its grant application.