Facade Improvement Grant Program
We are pleased to announce the fourth year for the Façade Improvement Grant Program. The City of Banks has allocated $30,000 that will be awarded to commercial property owners in 2024 for exterior building improvements. Grant amounts will be with a $1 granted for each $1 invested by the applicant to help offset the costs of improvements to storefronts, abutting street frontage, landscapes, and rooftop appearance of eligible commercial buildings.
In addition to the $30,000, the city will set aside an additional $5,000 to assist in design assistance for eligible projects, subject to city approval. Applicants may request up to $1,000.
Upgrading your business can be a great way to engage with new customers and reconnect with longstanding ones. Studies have shown that improvements to commercial buildings often lead to increased sales that are sustained over several years. These improvements have been shown to attract new customers not only to the improved business, but to the surrounding retail district as well.
Whether you are interested in completely redesigning your storefront, upgrading certain storefront elements, improving landscaping, or extending your outdoor seating and display areas, the Facade Improvement Grant Program can help. As a Banks business/commercial property owner, you are eligible to apply.
Questions? Please contact City Manager, Jolynn Becker at 503-324-5112 or jbecker@cityofbanks.org for more information.
Facade Improvement Grant Program Timeline
| Facade Improvement Grant Program opens to Applications | August 12, 2024 |
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Contact the City Planner for design assistance (available free of charge as needed). |
August 12, 2024 - September 30, 2024 |
| Grant Applications due at City Hall. | November 1, 2024 by 12:00 pm |
| Applications reviewed by City Staff. | November 1, 2024 - November 30, 2024 |
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Grant Award by Economic Development Commission with the recommendation to the Urban Renewal Agency. |
December 4, 2024 |
| Urban Renewal Agency approves the recommendations. | December 10, 2024 |
| Awardee obtains bids and completes due diligence. | January 2025 |
| City issues Commitment of Funds Letter | February 2025 (tentative) |
| Complete remodel and submit invoices | Due by June 30, 2026 |
| Funds disbursed to applicants | Upon City approval of completed project. |