The Duneland Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Duneland Economic Development Company (DEDC), has released applications for the 2016 Exterior Improvement Grant Program, formerly known as the Façade Grant Program.
President of DEDC, Maura Durham said, “We have changed the name of the grant because we wish for all the owners to know that the grants may be used for expenses associated with not only the façade of their buildings, but also the exterior rehabilitation of their property. Chesterton Art Center was a great example of using the grant money for some much needed landscape beautification.”
Funded by the DEDC, the Exterior Improvement Grant Program fosters and funds projects that will improve the appearance of commercial buildings in the main corridors of Duneland communities. It is the DEDC’s philosophy that funding such projects will draw and increase the number of visitors to downtown areas and enhance the quality of life for local residents.
The program requires that a minimum 20% of the project be paid for by the applicant, and it is anticipated that DEDC awards will range from $1,000 to $5,000, those grant amounts are subject to change based on the quality of proposed projects.
“We are looking forward to see what this year will bring in applicants. We encourage all businesses to submit their projects whether they have been accepted or not in past years. Completion deadline is October 31,” said Durham. All building permits must be obtained prior to commencing the project. Applicants should submit detailed budgets which demonstrate good planning and aesthetic cooperation with neighboring businesses.
All interested commercial building owners are encouraged to submit applications to the Chamber office at 220 Broadway in Chesterton by 4:00 pm on April 29, 2015.
For more information or to request an application, please call the Chamber office at (219) 926-5513 or email info@dunelandchamber.org.