Western Avenue Storefront Improvement Grant Program

The Western Avenue Commercial Storefront Improvement Program was approved by the Rancho Palos Verdes City Council on September 17, 2024. This program aims to support commercial businesses located along the Western Avenue Commercial Corridor by providing up to a 50% matching grant to qualified businesses and property owners for the completion of storefront improvements. The goal of the program is to enhance and restore the physical condition and appearance of commercial properties, making the corridor more visually appealing and accessible.

Phase 2 of the program, which includes funding for landscaping improvements, is now open for applications through March 28, 2025. A virtual information session was held on October 21, 2024, and a recording of the session is available for interested applicants. Landscaping applications must adhere to specific requirements outlined in the program guidelines.

Eligible applicants must be commercial businesses located within the designated program area. Both franchises and chain retailers are eligible to apply. Proposed improvements must be visible from the street and may include exterior paint, signage removal, repair or replacement of exterior siding, installation of new entry doors that meet ADA requirements, window repairs, awning installations, exterior lighting, permanent landscaping, full storefront re-facing, and remediation of city and state code violations. Additionally, the grant can support the construction of outdoor dining and gathering spaces. Improvements that contribute to a storefront’s overall upgrade but are not explicitly listed may also be considered for funding on a case-by-case basis.

The program offers three tiers of funding. Tier 1 grants reimburse 50% of eligible costs up to $5,000 for non-architectural improvements such as paint, signage, and awnings. Tier 2 grants reimburse 50% of costs up to $10,000 for more substantial storefront improvements, including structural upgrades and ADA-compliant entryways. Tier 3 grants, available for multi-tenant commercial buildings with three or more tenants, reimburse 50% of costs up to $20,000 and may be used for both Tier 1 and Tier 2 improvements. While the standard match requirement is 50%, the City reserves the right to adjust this on a case-by-case basis.

To apply, businesses must submit a completed grant application along with supporting documents. The program guidelines, application forms, and sample grant agreements are available online. Applications and any questions should be directed to WesternStorefrontProgram@rpvca.gov. The City of Rancho Palos Verdes reserves the right to reject applications that do not meet program criteria.

For further information, applicants can review the September 17, 2024, City Council Staff Report, the Western Avenue Commercial Storefront Improvement Program Guidelines, and the Western Avenue Storefront Improvement Program Map. Additional inquiries can be directed to the City of Rancho Palos Verdes at 310-544-5200.