The Beautification in Action Grant is administered by the City of Flagstaff through its Beautification and Public Art Commission. This grant program is designed to support projects that enhance the visual appeal of Flagstaff’s urban environment through physical beautification and public art installations. The program is funded by the Bed, Board and Beverage (BBB) tax, a local tax applied to revenue from hotels, motels, bars, and restaurants. The Beautification and Public Art Commission, whose members are appointed by the Flagstaff City Council, reviews applications and makes funding recommendations to the City.

The purpose of the grant is to fund community-based beautification projects that provide a lasting public benefit to the City of Flagstaff. Eligible projects include landscaping and irrigation installations, public art such as murals and utility cabinet art wraps, new neighborhood paths, publicly accessible gardens, environmental or living art installations, and other creative improvements to public spaces. Projects should enhance community aesthetics, foster neighborhood relationships, inspire creativity, promote community pride, and contribute to environmental sustainability.

Each project may receive up to $7,500 in funding, with a maximum of $3,250 permitted for artist or contractor fees. The remaining funds must be spent on materials, installation, and other project-related costs. Applicants are encouraged to seek multiple funding sources to support their projects. Grant applications are accepted biannually, with deadlines on March 15 and September 15 at 5:00 p.m. Projects must be completed within 12 months of receiving funding.

Eligible applicants include individuals, groups of individuals, community groups, nonprofit organizations, businesses, and educational institutions that engage students directly in the project. Political or partisan groups, exclusive clubs, religious organizations, and any applicant that has failed to complete a previous grant project without justification are not eligible. Applicants may collaborate with non-eligible entities if necessary, such as obtaining permission to beautify a property belonging to a religious organization.

Applications must be submitted by the deadline to be considered and are reviewed for completeness, clarity, feasibility, and adherence to program guidelines. Successful applicants will be invited to present their projects to the Beautification and Public Art Commission, which meets the second Monday of each month. Final funding decisions are made following these presentations, with priority given to projects that demonstrate strong community support, engage volunteers, enhance historical or educational value, and foster inclusion and equity.

Applications should be sent to Cory Woodall at the City of Flagstaff, either via email at Cory.Woodall@flagstaffaz.gov or by mail to City Hall, 211 West Aspen Avenue, Flagstaff, AZ 86001. Applicants will be notified within one month of the deadline if their application will move forward. Fund disbursements follow a split process, with up to 50% of funds available at the start of the project and the remainder provided after submission and approval of a final report, which must be submitted within 60 days of project completion.