2023 DESIGN CHALLENGE GRANT PROGRAM
AND GUIDELINES FOR BUILDING AND FAÇADE IMPROVEMENTS
In order to encourage the rehabilitation of building façades and streetscape improvements in the downtown business district, the Easton Main Street Initiative (EMSI) is able to use funds from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, Northampton County Department of Community and Economic Development, proceeds from the Historic Easton House Tour, and other resources to financially assist property and business owners in completing their projects.
Eligible buildings must be located in the Main Street district which is indicated on the map below in blue. Most street-facing exterior improvements will be considered for the grant including paint, windows, repointing, doors, façade repair/ restoration and signage. In addition to physical improvements, professional design services are also eligible for assistance under this program.
Available Funds for Façade Improvements
This grant program will reimburse property and business owners a fifty percent match of project costs up to $5,000. For example, if a project costs a total of $10,000, $5,000 will be reimbursed. Projects exceeding $10,000 will only be eligible for a maximum reimbursement of $5,000. Façade improvement projects exceeding $25,000 in cost are not eligible for this program.
Available Funds for Design Services
This grant program will reimburse property and business owners up to $500 for professional design fees related to a façade improvement project. Reimbursement will be made in full with no match requirement for design fees up to the stated maximum allowance.
Available Funds for Signage
This grant program will reimburse property and business owners a fifty percent match of signage costs up to $1,500. Sign projects that exceed $3,000 are only eligible for a maximum reimbursement of $1,500.
Evaluation Criteria and Approvals
A full set of guidelines, along with the Facade Grant Application can be downloaded HERE.
This is a competitive process. Applications will be reviewed by the committee and evaluated on a point system scale. Submission Deadline: Monday, May 15, 2023.
Additional links: Historic District Commission Website | Historic District Commission Certificate of Appropriateness Application
If you need additional assistance, please call Kim Kmetz at (610) 533-9588 or email kim@eastonpartnership.org.