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Business owners in downtown Ishpeming owners are taking advantage of a grant program designed to provide money to improve the overall look and performance of the area.
The Facade Improvement Grant Program is being run by the city's Downtown Development Authority. In a nutshell, the program uses public funds to stimulate commercial investment and aid local businesses, especially for facade improvements or modifications to improve accessibility.
There are rules in the program, including eligible buildings must be located within the designated DDA district.
In addition, grant awards will equal no more than 50% of the total project cost on a reimbursable basis. There is no minimum award, however the maximum award is established at $10,000 for a single project.
All award amounts are entirely within the discretion of the DDA.
Applications for the Facade Improvement Grant Program are currently open with an application deadline of March 11.
Officials tell us the DDA will rank applications at its regular meeting on March 25.
At a glance, this looks like a worthy program that uses a few taxpayer's dollars in a way that will likely generate increased commerce.
We'd recommend eligible businesses in Ishpeming's downtown seriously consider participating.