Main Street Greencastle taking applications for Downtown Development Grant program

Main Street Greencastle is currently taking applications for a Downtown Development Grant.

The Main Street DDG is primarily designed to increase the aesthetic appeal and property values of commercial properties within the Courthouse Square National Register Historic District.

By working directly with business and property owners, the DDG stimulates investment through external improvements that preserve and care for the historic and commercial architecture of the core of downtown Greencastle. Grants will be awarded each calendar year and will be selected by a committee made up of city appointments and MSG board members.

“We’re really excited about this grant opportunity,” Main Street Executive Director Russell Harvey said. “It will provide some much-needed assistance to allow building owners to spruce up their buildings or make needed repairs. It’s no secret that having a vibrant downtown is vital to a strong community. This is an opportunity to continue the efforts from the Stellar Grant some years ago.”

This is a reimbursement grant that will allow reimbursement of a portion of the cost for façade upgrades and repairs. The program will provide financial support for design assistance.

Proposed grant amounts: The program provides 50 percent reimbursement up to a maximum grant amount not to exceed $15,000 on first 21 linear feet of storefront; up to maximum grant amount of $25,000 for storefronts that are more than 22 feet wide. Corner buildings may receive up to a maximum amount of $25,000 if work is proposed for two facades.

The minimum project cost is $1,000.

A 100-percent reimbursement up to a maximum of $500 of actual architectural costs associated with the proposed project will be reimbursed at the end of the project. The design assistance must be provided by a qualified design professional such as a registered architect, preservation specialist, graphic designer or engineer. The design work must be used in the project.

“We also encourage business owners who may be renting to share this info with their building owners,” Harvey said. “Main Street would be happy to meet with anyone that has questions and can help facilitate conversations with building owners.”

Anyone interested in applying for the grant should visit www.Mainstreetgc.org or email Main Street Greencastle at Hello@mainstreetgc.org.