The City of Port St. Lucie, Florida, is offering a Commercial Façade Improvement Grant Program aimed at revitalizing storefronts and enhancing the visual appeal of commercial areas. This initiative is funded through the federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program and is designed to stimulate local economic activity, elevate property values, and foster a vibrant sense of community through visible business enhancements.

The grant provides up to $10,000 in funding on a matching basis, where the city will reimburse 50% of the total project costs. For example, a business undertaking a $20,000 improvement project could receive $10,000 from the grant after completing the work and submitting the required documentation. All funds are disbursed on a reimbursement basis following verification of project completion.

Eligibility is limited to for-profit businesses with street-visible facades located within designated CDBG census tract areas in the City of Port St. Lucie. Both business and property owners, as well as tenants with landlord approval, may apply. All improvements must focus on the street-facing portions of the business structure.

Eligible projects include exterior painting, lighting, door and window repairs, awning installations, landscaping, signage, minor façade improvements, and living wall installations. Ineligible uses of funds include new construction, residential properties, interior renovations, painting of unpainted brick, and work on public sidewalks.

Applications must be submitted online through the ZoomGrants portal. The application period for the 2025 cycle opens at 9:00 a.m. on March 4, 2025, and closes at 5:00 p.m. on April 8, 2025. An information session for interested applicants was held on February 25, 2025, and is available for viewing.

For further guidance, applicants are encouraged to review the program guide and contact the Neighborhood Services Department at 772-344-4084 or by email at neighborhoodservices@cityofpsl.com. The city’s program staff is available to assist applicants in understanding the process and ensuring eligibility.