Central Nebraska communities receive block grants

Thanks to federal block grants for community developments, several Central Nebraska towns will begin major projects.

Gov. Dave Heineman says 35 communities -- mostly in rural parts of the state -- will share more than $5 million.

Among the grants is $250,000 for a new, 8,300-square-foot fire station for the district that protects people, homes and businesses in and around Ansley and Berwyn.

Loup City will be getting $250,000 to surface three blocks with concrete and install curbs and gutters. The city will earmark $126,200 of its money for the work.