PALM SPRINGS — In December 2017, the city celebrated with great fanfare the Palm Springs Renaissance and it continues today with the announcement that the successful facade improvement grant program will again accept applications.
With the addition of Starbucks Reserve, Tommy Bahama Marlin Bar and Grill, the Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs Hotel and more, the Downtown Revitalization Project has a healthy heartbeat. As exciting as new businesses can be, a specific City Council subcommittee is keeping in mind the not-so-new businesses and offering them a hand if they need it.
The Business Retention/Economic Development City Council subcommittee,
comprised of Councilmembers Geoff Kors and Christy Holstege, recommended at
their April 10 meeting to restart the citywide program, which will provide a 50
percent match of up to $5,000 for exterior improvements to local businesses
throughout Palm Springs.
In November 2014, as part of its Special Economic Development Focus Area Incentive Program, the city established a Facade Improvement Program designed to encourage
the improvement and investment in commercial properties that contribute to the
revitalization within the city of Palm Springs.
“When the city originally implemented the program, we had many applicants, but we ended up having a surplus of $200,000 that was not spent,” Communications Director Amy Blaisdell told Uken Report. “After meetings with the business community, it was decided to start up the program again to assist those businesses who may need help with façade improvements.”
The program is open to all Palm Springs businesses.
Eligible uses for the grant program include:
- Exterior signs
- Awnings, canopies or sunshades
- Painting or exterior surface treatment
- Asphalt paving
- Replacement or repair of items such as tiles or decorative pavers
- Repair or replacement of masonry walls, outdoor lighting, security fencing, plate glass windows and installation or replacement of outdoor landscaping and fountains
Applicants must hire their own contractors and are responsible for obtaining all
design or permit approvals.
“This is fantastic news for the Palm Springs business community. The city is
booming right now, but it is important that we continue to develop tools and
programs to assist local business owners,” Nona Watson, CEO of the Palm
Springs Chamber of Commerce, said in a prepared statement.
“This innovative grant program is a great way to help businesses keep their
storefronts fresh and sparkling,” she said. “I want to thank the city of Palm Springs,
for continuing to listen to the needs of our business community.”
To apply for a grant, visit here and go to Economic Development.
Image Sources
- Grant: Shutterstock
