City & Economic Development Authority Announce $450,000 Facade Improvement Program in City's Arts & Cultural District

The City of Richmond and the City of Richmond Economic Development Authority are pleased to announce the start of the Façade Improvement Program (FIP) in the City’s Arts and Cultural District. This new program, one of several recent City initiatives designed for the District, has a total funding of $450,000 to assist business in the defined area. The purpose of the Program is to increase business activity and vibrancy of the District by funding historic rehabilitation and thoughtful design improvements of storefronts. Projects include uncovering and restoring historical façades, removing existing façade materials and replacing them with more appropriate and attractive designs and materials, architectural lighting of the façade, and other detailing which leads to a substantially enhanced appearance of the building. Projects meeting these objectives are eligible for a reimbursement grant for up to one-half of eligible costs, up to a maximum of $40,000 dependent upon building size.

“The City is excited to offer this opportunity for business and property owners to leverage their private investment in the City’s Arts & Cultural District. Many studies have shown that restoration and thoughtful design improvements often lead to greater business success by attracting more customers,” said Mayor Dwight C. Jones. Mayor Jones has made revitalization of the District one of the focal points of his Administration.

Applications will be accepted until all funds are utilized. To download the grant criteria and application please visit the program website at
www.richmondgov.com/PlanningAndDevelopmentReview/FacadeImprovement.

To learn more about the programs, incentives, and financing resources available to entities located in the City’s Arts and Cultural District, please visit www.yesrichmondva.com/neighborhood-revitalization/Broad-Street-ArtBiz-District.