Reno’s ‘Love Your Block’ Program Expands to Ward 1: Applications Open for Community Projects
The City of Reno, in collaboration with the Bloomberg Center for Public Innovation at Johns Hopkins University, has announced the launch of the second year of the ‘Love Your Block’ Community Grant Program. This initiative focuses on supporting local projects in Ward 1, which has been identified as having the second-highest number of residential code violations in the city. Residents are encouraged to apply for grants to fund innovative community projects aimed at revitalizing public areas.
Ward 1 Councilmember Kathleen Taylor expressed enthusiasm about the initiative, stating, “We’re excited to see impactful projects happening across our city, and I encourage Ward 1 residents to get involved. These community-led efforts create lasting impact and help revitalize our public spaces.”
Applications for the program will be accepted from February 13, 2026, through March 31, 2026, with selected applicants being notified by April 22, 2026. The grants will support a range of community-driven initiatives, such as neighborhood clean-ups, public art installations, and other projects designed to enhance community spaces in Ward 1.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Open to individual residents over 18, as well as groups or organizations.
- Applicants do not need property ownership but must obtain the owner’s permission if necessary.
- Project budgets must range from $500 to $5,000.
- Projects should benefit the Ward 1 community and aim to improve neighborhood conditions.
- Opportunities for resident volunteer participation are required.
- Projects must focus on exterior or outdoor improvements and be completed within four weeks.
- Completion deadline for projects is August 31, 2026.
The City’s Housing and Neighborhood Development team will hold open office hours to provide application assistance during the following times:
- February 17 – 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
- February 25 – 2-5 p.m.
- March 2 – 1-4 p.m.
- March 12 – 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
Residents interested in applying can find more details and submit their applications on the City’s Love Your Block page.
Additionally, a separate grant application, “Love Your Home,” will commence on May 1. This initiative will focus on enhancing the exterior of private homes in Ward 1, including projects like yard improvements and fence painting.
Those interested in volunteering for The Love Your Block Project can apply through the Volunteer Sheet.
The Love Your Block Program began in Ward 3 in 2025, with initiatives like the Rising for People Coffee mural and Vesta & Wells Block Bike Rack installations. For more information on previous grants, visit the City’s newsroom page.
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