2016 Facade Improvement Grant Program Opens

Tracy, Calif. –The City of Tracy is pleased to announce the release of grant funds to assist in the restoration, renovation, and repair of commercial buildings in Downtown Tracy. The Façade Improvement Grant Program aims to encourage private investment in the visual improvement of commercial storefronts, signs, and awnings, while restoring the original character of historic buildings and providing a catalyst for others to improve the visual appearance of their privately owned buildings. Storefront façade improvements can include, but are not limited to: painting, stucco, masonry, awnings and canopies, affixed signage, exterior lighting, commercial storefront replacement, and accessibility improvements.

The program eligible boundaries in the downtown area include commercial properties fronting Central Avenue between 6th Street and 11th Street, commercial properties fronting 10th Street between A Street and Central Avenue, commercial properties fronting B Street between 10th Street and 11th Street, and a portion of the commercial properties fronting 6th Street between Central Avenue and D Street. These areas mirror the Tracy City Center Association Community Downtown District boundaries.

Grants funds are available as part of the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) allocation through the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for Fiscal Year 2016-2017. There will be approximately $35,000 in available funding for the current program year available to interested grant applicants on a competitive selection basis. Grant funds may be used to reimburse program participants for up to 50% of the actual costs of improving the exterior of their owned or occupied commercial building up to a maximum grant award of up to $2,000 for sign and awning projects and up to $50,000 for full exterior renovation projects. Private matching funds are required for program participation.

“Downtown Tracy is a destination that offers unique shopping, dining, entertainment and events on a year-round basis. The Façade Improvement Grant Program uses Federal funds, along with private dollars from business and property owners, to make economic development investments that assist in creating an even better downtown experience for residents and visitors alike,” said Barbara Harb, Economic Development Analyst. “The grant program has had so many great applicants and projects in the last couple of years. The City of Tracy is excited to partner with downtown business and property owners to make their vision become a reality.”

Property owners and business tenants are encouraged to apply with the City of Tracy, Economic Development Division to take advantage of the opportunity to improve the visual appearance of their building and continue the overall effort to revitalize downtown Tracy as the heart of the city. 

An informational workshop will be held on Thursday, August 4, 2016 from 5:00 -6:00 p.m. in Room 203, City Hall. Applications are due to the City’s Economic Development Division, Tracy City Hall, 333 Civic Center Plaza, Tracy, CA 95376, by 5:00 p.m., on Thursday, September 1, 2016. Interested parties should contact City of Tracy Economic Development Division at (209) 831-6490.

CONTACT:
Joshua Ewen, Management Analyst
209.831.6492

Download Grant Application HERE.