MEDIA PRESS RELEASE - for immediate release
February 8th, 2010 | For details and information concerning this release, please contact us.
Facade Grants for Local Businesses
Buildings within the City of Pascagoula’s Downtown could be getting a new look, thanks to a grant opportunity provided by the City through a Community Development Block Grant. All eligible business owners and renters within the project area are invited to a kick-off meeting Thursday, January 28, at 5:30 pm in the City Hall Council Chambers.
“This façade program is a great way for businesses to update their exterior and get more bang for their buck,” said Harry Schmidt, Director of Community Development. “The City will provide 60 percent of the eligible project cost up to a maximum contribution of $10,000, in addition to providing design consultation and project engineering.”
Beginning Jan. 29 through March 1, 2010, the City will be accepting grant applications for façade improvements. Grants will be awarded on a competitive basis in the Spring. Approximately 10 grants will be awarded depending of the scope of each project.
Grant dollars will be available for projects addressing exterior walls facing public streets, awnings or canopies, exterior lighting and hanging signs, installation or repair to storefront doors, windows, parapets or cornices, and the removal of finishes or materials not matching the historical character of the City.
Applications received will be ranked for funding according to the level of architectural preservation and impact on the streetscape. Eligible buildings must be located within the Downtown Façade District bounded by Krebs Avenue, Pascagoula Street, Convent Avenue, and the Pascagoula River. The City hopes to fund additional façade grant opportunities in other neighborhoods within the City in upcoming years.
Awarded funds will be for commercial purposes on buildings offering retail, restaurants, service establishments or offices. Applicants must also be up to date on all City taxes, must comply with all state and local licensing and permitting laws, and must sign a façade easement allowing for the construction and agreeing to maintain the façade improvement for five years once completed.
Grant applications are available here on the website and also at City Hall, Community Development, and the Main Street office all located in Downtown Pascagoula.
