The Albert Lea City Council on Monday approved its first grant from the Broadway Ridge Renewal Fund that could aid in some major renovations to one downtown facade.

The council approved a $50,000 matching grant from the fund to AZ-1 Inc., which is working to transform the building known as the Community Cornerstone, at the northwest corner of Broadway Avenue and Main Street, formerly the Bible Bookstore.

Dan DeBoer, who is involved with the project, said ultimately the building will be a place for men who have just completed a long-term treatment program such as Teen Challenge. It will include transitional housing, where the men can live, build relationships and learn additional skills.

The exterior work needed to transform the building involves new windows on the upper floor, new framing and trim, a new storefront to match historical renderings and an upgrade to the exterior stairwell on the side of the building.

The exterior renovations are estimated at about $122,000.

DeBoer said in the basement, there’d be a place to help people learn, obtain GEDs, receive mentoring and go for resources and leadership training.

The main floor would include a coffee shop, pool table and a stage for entertainment.

“It will be a great place where people can come to build relationships,” he said.

He estimated the people using the facility would stay there for 12 to 15 months.

Eight people will be able to stay at a time. A caregiver will also live on site.

The project has already been approved by the Heritage Preservation Commission and the Albert Lea Port Authority.

The city hopes the grant program will jump-start renovations in the downtown.

“This is kind of an exciting time for me,” said 2nd Ward Councilor Larry Baker. “We’ve been working on this (program) for a year and a half to change this Broadway Ridge Renewal Fund to a grant, and it’s fun to be able to see you guys move forward with this.

“I think it’s going to be exciting for the downtown,” Baker added.

Fifth Ward Councilor Larry Anderson said he’s been watching the building for years and is pleased to see something happening there.

“I think it’s a great project to get into,” he said.

As part of the grant agreement, AZ-1 also agreed to a facade easement for the project.

Look to the Tribune online and in print for more about Monday’s meeting.