The Downtown Yankton Facade Grant Program is a funding opportunity designed to support the improvement of commercial properties in downtown Yankton, South Dakota. The program offers a 50% public/50% private matching funds grant, intended for owners and tenants of existing commercial properties, excluding single-family residences, in the downtown area. This initiative is part of a broader effort to stimulate private investment, enhance economic vibrancy, and preserve the architectural heritage of the area. The ultimate goal is to make downtown Yankton more attractive, fostering a thriving environment for business and tourism.

The grant funds must be used to upgrade the publicly visible exterior of commercial buildings, specifically improving the facade. Special priority is given to projects that involve historic preservation or restoration, in order to maintain the architectural integrity of the downtown area. A complete list of eligible uses for the grant can be found in the Program Guidelines.

Eligibility for the program is limited to owners and tenants of commercial properties located south of 5th Street, between Linn Street and Burleigh Street. Single-family residences do not qualify for funding. Applicants must submit their completed applications to the Community and Economic Development Office by 5:00 p.m. on March 3, 2025, in order to be considered for the current funding cycle. However, additional applications may be accepted on an ongoing basis as long as funds remain available.

Interested applicants must review the Program Guidelines and Application, which are provided in both a fillable PDF format and a Microsoft Word format. Before-and-after photos of completed projects can be accessed to showcase the impact of the program.

Brad Bies, the Community Development Manager, is the primary contact for any inquiries regarding the grant. He can be reached at his email address or by phone for additional information or assistance with the application process.