The Gladstone Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is pleased to announce the continuation of its façade grant program for the year 2024. This program is designed to support business owners within the DDA district of Gladstone, Michigan, by providing financial assistance for improvements to the exterior facades of their buildings. The program aims to enhance the visual appeal of the downtown area, thereby attracting more visitors and fostering a vibrant business environment.

The primary purpose of the façade grant program is to facilitate renovations that improve the aesthetic quality of business properties. Eligible projects include a variety of enhancements such as awning restoration or repair, door replacement upgrades, updates to exterior light fixtures, exterior painting, removal of fake facades, and the elimination of irrelevant or old signage. Additionally, the program supports masonry cleaning or repair, restoration of historic elements, siding repair or replacement, removal of window air conditioners, and window replacement upgrades. The focus is on the front facade and any additional sides that are visible to the public, particularly those facing streets or pedestrian traffic.

To be eligible for the grant, applicants must be current business owners located within the DDA district, and the primary use of the property must be business-related. It is important to note that business owners who have previously received funding for a façade project must wait a minimum of five years before reapplying for additional funds. This stipulation ensures that the program can assist a broader range of businesses over time.

The grant does not require a matching contribution from applicants, making it accessible for various business owners. However, specific details regarding the size of the grant and the total program funding have not been disclosed. The application process is anticipated to open with a deadline set for October 31, 2024. Interested applicants should prepare to submit their proposals by this date to be considered for funding.

While the submission requirements and specific application questions have not been detailed in the provided information, applicants can expect to provide information about their business, the proposed improvements, and how these changes will benefit the community. Evaluation criteria will likely include the potential impact of the project on the downtown area, the feasibility of the proposed improvements, and the alignment with the goals of the DDA.

For those interested in applying, it is advisable to stay updated through the DDA's official website, where further details and guidance will be made available as the application period approaches. The façade grant program represents an opportunity for business owners in Gladstone to enhance their properties and contribute to the overall beautification of the downtown area.