Title
Downtown Façade Grant Program Improvements (B)
Explanation
The Downtown Redevelopment Advisory Board (DRAB) recently funded two façade projects undertaken near West University Avenue and North Main Street. The positive impact of these projects makes it desirable to focus the façade grant funding along these high visibility corridors and within the urban core. At the May 26, 2006 DRAB meeting, staff proposed program improvements, which include an increased budget, competitive application process, new focus on high-visibility locations, encouragement for major renovations, modified selection criteria, marketing and recognition of the program and those who are selected, and a reception at the conclusion of the projects.
DRAB members unanimously approved the program changes with recommendations to modify the point system proposed by staff and to change the reception to a media event with awards presented at a City Commission meeting. A revised program including all of these proposed changes is included in the backup.
The new program will be promoted to downtown businesses in late June; applications will be taken in July, DRAB will review the applications and select two projects in August, and the selected projects will be started in the fall. Once the projects are completed, there will be a media event and awards ceremony to honor the successful applicants.
Staff has prepared a brief presentation describing the new program.
Fiscal Note
$20,000 has been budgeted for the 07-08 Façade Grant Program. The CRA has $2,000 in the Public Information Campaign Account (MY-610-790-W217-5520) that could be used to fund the marketing outreach and media event for the winners.
Recommendation
Downtown Redevelopment Advisory Board to the CRA: Approve the modifications to the Façade Grant Program.