Town of Poncha Springs Façade and Frontage Grant Program Overview
The Poncha Springs Façade and Frontage Grant Program is a strategic economic development initiative designed to support businesses in improving the exterior appearance, safety, and functionality of buildings located within key commercial and highway corridors. By investing in visible improvements, the Town aims to enhance community character, stimulate economic activity, and support small businesses.
Program Goals
• Encourage reinvestment in commercial properties
• Enhance visual appeal of business corridors
• Support small business competitiveness
• Promote safe and accessible properties
• Preserve historic and architectural character where applicable
Funding Availability
• Total Program Budget: $40,000
• Grants are awarded on a reimbursement basis
• Applicants must provide a minimum 25% match
Eligible Project Categories
1. Façade Improvements
Award Range: $1,000 – $10,000
Examples:
• Exterior painting (stucco, siding, trim)
• Window repair or replacement
• Minor architectural enhancements
• Masonry repair
2. Sign Improvements
Award Range: $250 – $2,000
Examples:
• New business signage
• Sign replacement or restoration
• Improved visibility and design
3. Landscape Improvements
Award Range: $500 – $5,000
Examples:
• Sidewalk repair or installation
• Fencing improvements
• Native, low-water landscaping (trees, shrubs, turf)
Key Benefits
• Economic Revitalization: Attracts visitors, businesses, and investment
• Character Preservation: Maintains community character
• Business Support: Improves visibility and customer appeal
• Property Value Growth: Enhances surrounding area value
• Safety & Accessibility: Supports ADA and safety upgrades
Eligibility Requirements
• Property must be located within designated commercial or highway corridors
• Applicant must be the property owner or have owner authorization
• Project must be visible from public right-of-way
• Improvements must comply with local codes and ordinances
Application Process
Step 1: Submit Application
Include:
• Completed application form
• Project description, justification, and designs
• Budget and cost estimates
• Photos of current conditions
Step 2: Staff Review
• Verify eligibility and completeness
• Provide recommendation to Board
Step 3: Administrative Review
• Applications scored using standardized rubric
• Awards based on:
o Project impact
o Visibility
o Need
o Location
Step 4: Award and Agreement
• Applicants
Step 5: Timeline and Considerations:
• Projects must be completed within one year of award and contractual agreement
• Awards are granted as reimbursements. Awardees will pay the full upfront cost; the Town will reimburse the
awardee for the amount agree upon at the conclusion of the project.
Match Requirement Example
• Total Project Cost: $10,000
• Town Grant (75%): $7,500
• Applicant Match (25%): $2,500
Contact Information: Lance Hostetter, Town Administrator
lance.hostetter [at] ponchasprings.us (lance[dot]hostetter[at]ponchasprings[dot]us)