Commercial Properties Eligible for Facade Grant

Updated: August 2, 2023 | Posted: January 9, 2023

Allamakee County has officially established the Allamakee County Facade Improvement Grant, which will provide eligible applicants with financial assistance to improve the exterior portion of commercial structures and property throughout Allamakee County. Grants will be offered for amounts up to $5,000 and will require a 1:1 cash match from the grantee. $50,000 has been allocated to this program from Allamakee County’s hotel/motel tax revenue, which is collected from visitors to short-term lodging units in Allamakee County. The goal of this funding is to improve the visual aesthetics of Allamakee County and create beneficial development that can activate underutilized buildings.

Any property owner or property-owner sponsored tenant of existing commercial buildings within Allamakee County is eligible to apply for this grant program. Eligible activities include historically accurate repairs to building facades, masonry repair, cleaning of the exterior of the building, exterior painting, awnings, sign installation and repair, and replacement or repair of entrances, doors, and windows.

Grant applications will be reviewed by the Allamakee County Economic Development Board of Directors, who will recommend projects to the Allamakee County Board of Supervisors for approval. Applications will be accepted on an on-going basis until program funds have been allocated. Funds are expected to be allocated rapidly, so early applications are encouraged.

“The Allamakee County Facade Improvement Grant will create a huge impact in our county,” said Andy Kelleher, Vice President of Allamakee County Economic Development. “Facades present one of the biggest development needs in Allamakee County, and the effect of even minor improvements can be felt in many areas. Businesses that improve their facades can see sales increases of 20%, and increased foot traffic can help neighboring businesses and reduce the likelihood of crime. A visually attractive community will bring visitors and new residents to our county and further expand the reach of this program. Small communities are often overlooked for federal building development programs, so we are proud to offer this opportunity to our property owners, and we look forward to seeing your projects.”

Application details can be found below.

Additional Resources

Area News
SHARE ARTICLE