BIG Improvement program expands

East Aldine grant program now covers Facades, more

The East Aldine Management District (EAMD) Board of Directors has established and funded the Façade Grant program for the EAMD, as part of the original BIG (Business Improvement Grant) program. The program provides grant funds to EAMD commercial property owners, within the district boundaries, in support of revitalization on a case-by-case basis.

Grants are available on a 50/50 basis with a cap of $10,000 per grant. Grant funds will only be approved for facades and signs which are in alignment with the City’s Code of Ordinances. Eligible projects include but are not limited to the following:

(1) Façade renovations (visible to the public)
(2) Awning installation
(3) Outdoor lighting
(4) Landscaping
(5) Signage
(6) Roof and foundation repairs
(7) Exterior Painting
(8) Parking Lot Improvements
(9) Power Washing Applications for the program are reviewed by the EAMD Board.

In addition to review for basic eligibility requirements, applications will be reviewed for:

(1) Potential to diversify the economy.
(2) Effect and support on other businesses; and/ or
(3) Consistency with local redevelopment strategies.

The EAMD Board will recommend grants based upon the following. There is no proprietary right to receive grant funds.

(1) Amount requested.
(2) Grant funds available.
(3) Condition of the building in which grant funds will be used.
(4) Other grant requests.
(5) Compatibility.

The EAMD Board shall consider any Application within its discretionary authority to determine what grant amount will be in the best interest of the Grant program.

Who Qualifies?

Any commercial lot/ structure located within District boundaries.

Residential properties, sexually oriented businesses, nightclubs, game rooms, and similar businesses (as determined by the EAMD Board) are not eligible.

The annual funding cycle begins January 1st of each year and ends December 31st. Grants are available on a first-come, first-serve basis until funds for the funding cycle are depleted.

No grant will be awarded for work that has already been done or covered by insurance. All submitted work will be reviewed and approved before any eligible work may begin.

If awarded a Façade Grant, any deviation from the approved grant project may result in total or partial withdrawal of the grant.

A Facade Grant “SIGN” must be displayed in the recipient’s storefront window, upon completion, for a minimum of three (3) months to officially recognize the EAMD grant program.

QUESTIONS

Facade Grant Application questions: Please call 832-677-0139 or 512-658- 4985. Lance Dean is in charge of the program for the East Aldine District.

See Page 8 of this issue for additional information on the BIG program, and a link for rules and application.