The City of Renton is offering the Neighborhood Project Grant Program for 2012, part of its efforts to build strong neighborhoods.

The grants are available to organized neighborhood associations with defined boundaries in Renton that have been officially recognized by the city.

The grants stimulate community projects that help build stronger neighborhoods and strengthen partnerships between the city and its neighborhoods, according to the city.

Eligible projects include physical improvements that build or enhance a feature of the neighborhood or benefit the general public.

The grants range from $3,000 to $5,000 per project, although the actual amount is based on a project’s merit as determined by the Renton City Council based on the recommendation of a staff-level interdepartmental team.

Grant applications are due by 5 p.m. on Friday, March 9.  Applications may be accessed on the city’s website.  When submitting an application, applicants must include neighborhood bylaws and a list of board members.

Awards will be announced in early May. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Neighborhood Program Coordinator Norma McQuiller at 425-430-6595 or nmcquiller@rentonwa.gov.