(September 4, 2019) — The City of Evansville invites business and property owners to rehabilitate historic commercial buildings with assistance from a new Historic Commercial Façade Grant Program.

$100,000 is available for the rehabilitation of properties located within the Promise Zone which are at least 40 years old, contribute to the area’s historic fabric and will be used for commercial
purposes. The Promise Zone area was chosen as it contains some of the City’s older business districts, which due to age and changing economic factors have fallen into decline.

To support revitalization activities in these areas, the Façade Grant Program will offer up to $25,000 for a single project that focuses on external improvements to a commercial building.

Residential properties will not be considered unless it is a mixed use property with the first floor designated for commercial purposes. The program has a 1:1 match requirement.

Depending on the geographic location other design review requirements for exterior changes to a building may also apply.

Applicants must submit a proposed design for façade improvements and cost estimates to the Department of Metropolitan Development between October 1 and November 1 of this year.

Application forms and guidelines and an FAQ are available on the City of Evansville’s website under the Department of Metropolitan Development/Promise Zone. Prospective applicants may also contact Christine Prior, Project Manager at cprior@evansville.in.gov or 812-436-4555.