Title
Beautification Grant Program (NB)
Explanation
Potential beautification projects have recently been proposed to staff that fall outside of existing CRA funded programs. Projects such as fence replacements and landscaping enhancements not associated with a development incentive request must currently be submitted either through the CRA's Façade Grant program (which is limited to certain areas of the CRA) or on an individual basis. Funding specific for these types of projects has not been allocated in any of the redevelopment area's trust fund budgets. Examples of such requests or possibilities would be beautification upgrades to prominent fences such as Porters Oaks and the fence at Hurley Hall on NW 17th Street. There are other key properties on prominent corridors such as University Avenue, Second Avenue, 6th Street, 13th Street and Depot Avenue that could benefit from such a program.
The CRA could consider creating a small matching grant program, similar to the Challenge Grant program previously in place several years ago, that would allow for business and property owners to make improvements to their landscaping, fences and other possible aesthetic treatments. The boundaries for this grant program could be expanded to include properties currently ineligible for façade grants. Staff recommends that this item be referred back to the CRA's Redevelopment Advisory Boards for further research and discussion, and will report the Advisory Board's recommendations back to the CRA.
Fiscal Note
None at this time.
Recommendation
Executive Director to the CRA: Recommend that the CRA refer this discussion regarding a potential beautification grant program to the Redevelopment Advisory Boards for their discussion and recommendation.