Dunkirk Seeks $399,950 OCRA Grant to Demolish 303 S. Main Street

From the Dunkirk City Council meeting on May 11, 2026

Dunkirk held its second public hearing on a demolition grant application to the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs for the deteriorating building at 303 S. Main Street. The total project is estimated at $444,400.

The city is requesting $399,950 from OCRA, with a $44,450 local match funded by the Dunkirk Industrial Development Corporation. Greg Brier and Ally Daugherty from HWC Engineering presented details at the hearing.

The building has lost approximately 40% of its roof, and rehabilitation would cost an estimated $1.3 million for structural integrity alone — not including mechanical, electrical, or plumbing work. The building shares a load-bearing wall with 322 S. Main Street. That wall will remain in place after demolition and receive a protective facade.

The State Historic Preservation Office initially pushed for renovation, but the matter was escalated to Washington, where federal officials agreed demolition is appropriate. The environmental review is being finalized. The full application is due June 2, 2026, with a funding announcement expected in the first week of September.

Source: YouTube transcript — 5/11/26 Council Meeting and City of Dunkirk - City Council Meeting - 5.11.26

Some information may be inaccurate due to video audio quality.