National Grid recently awarded grants to two Dunkirk projects.

To aid with the revitalization work at 401 Central Ave., National Grid awarded a $100,000 grant to developer 401 Central LLC through its Main Street Revitalization program. This program provides grants to eligible property owners, municipalities and non-profit development corporations that are transforming vacant structures into vibrant, state-of-the-art buildings that symbolize growth in Western New York’s central business districts.

Once complete, the former Lake Shore National Bank that was built in 1938 and was home to other Dunkirk bank branches, including Marine Midland Bank, HSBC and First Niagara, will include commercial space and four apartment units.

Additionally, National Grid is providing a $17,000 Brownfield Redevelopment program grant for upgrades being made to a building that was part of an industrial complex dating to the 1950s.

The building, located at 118 Stegelske St., had been a site where foods such as dressings, table syrups and beverage mixes had been produced until its closing around 2013. Current owner Atwater Capital is beginning the first phase of brownfield cleanup, including disposal of 25,000 square feet of hazardous wood block flooring.

When complete, the renovated building will include warehousing and manufacturing space. National Grid’s Brownfield Redevelopment Program funds utility-related infrastructure improvements and costs that are necessary to progress the redevelopment of a brownfield site or vacant building.

“We work closely with many customers who see potential in old, vacant buildings that are to be converted into thriving commercial or industrial sites, retail stores, or new company headquarters,” said National Grid Regional Director Ken Kujawa. “Our economic development programs serve as catalysts and are investments that can result in bringing these developers’ visions to life.”