MARQUETTE — The Marquette Downtown Development Authority recently announced its new Downtown Facade Improvement Grant Program designed to provide financial support for property and business owners seeking to upgrade storefront exteriors within the downtown district.

The aim of the program is to “not only improve an individual building’s appearance but also facilitate continued revitalization of the downtown district as a whole,” a DDA press release states.

The program offers a 1:2 match, with a maximum reimbursement of $5,000 and a minimum total project cost of $3,000.

To qualify, projects must be permanent, physical improvements to a building’s exterior, meet all building and zoning requirements and fit into the larger context of neighboring buildings. Approval by the DDA board is also required.

Funding for the program will be allocated annually, with grants awarded on a competitive, first-come, first-served basis.

For more information, or to obtain an application packet, visit www.downtownmarquette.org, email becky@downtownmarquette.org, call 906-228-9475 or visit the DDA office at 203 S. Front St., Suite 1-B, Marquette.