The Uptown Facade Improvement Program is an initiative by the City of Marysville, Ohio, aimed at stimulating private investment and high-quality historically accurate improvements to commercial and mixed-use properties within the Uptown Commercial Zoning District. The program is part of the city’s broader revitalization efforts, aligned with the Uptown Revitalization Plan and the Design Guidelines of Historic Uptown Marysville. Eligible improvements must enhance the exterior appearance of buildings while preserving historical integrity.

The program offers matching grants that cover up to 50% of eligible project costs. For projects deemed economically significant—those with high investment, community impact, innovation, or job creation—grants of up to $70,000 may be considered. Funding is reimbursed after the project is completed, verified for compliance with approved plans, and certified for cost and quality by the City. All applicants must provide a matching contribution using private, non-City funds.

Eligible applicants include both property owners and tenants. Government-owned properties are not eligible. Tenants must have written approval from property owners to apply. Applicants must also be current on all municipal obligations such as taxes, utilities, occupancy permits, and property maintenance. Business-specific improvements that are not permanent or historically significant to the structure are not eligible.

Qualifying properties must be commercial or mixed-use (not solely residential) and located within the Uptown Commercial Zoning District or a designated target area. Eligible project activities include window or door repair/replacement, exterior cleaning, facade restoration or renovation, and installation of fire suppression systems. All projects must comply with city and state codes, and applicants must obtain a Certificate of Appropriateness from the city’s Design Review Board before starting work.

Applications for the 2025 cycle open on March 3, 2025, and are due by April 7, 2025. Grant awards will be announced on April 11, 2025. Approved improvements must be completed within 180 days of grant approval. Disbursement of funds occurs only after project completion, verification of expenses, and inspection by city staff.

For more information or assistance, applicants can contact Ashley Gaver, City Planner, or Brad Lutz, Finance Director/Assistant City Manager.