The Schuyler County Legislature, in partnership with Schuyler County Partnership for Economic Development, has once again reopened the Downtown & Business ARPA Program, aimed at downtown revitalization with a match grant program to assist with building façade improvements. Over $100,000 is currently available to building owners for façade improvements to commercial and mixed-use properties.
This downtown improvement program is funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), and was established by the Schuyler County Legislature in January 2022. The purpose of the program is to support small businesses and existing building owners in improving the environment within our downtown communities. From the initial allocation of $350,000, an estimated $100,000 is still available, and applications will be accepted through September 6, 2023.
Properties located within one-half mile of the downtown boundaries of Watkins Glen, Odessa, Montour Falls, and Burdett are eligible to apply. Applicants can apply for a minimum of $5,000 up to $25,000 for their project improvements (total improvement costs of $10,000 - $50,000). Eligible properties include existing commercial or mixed-use buildings and exclude single, two-family, and multi-family homes. Applicants must show the ability to fund the project, as this is a reimbursement program and funds will not be disbursed until the project has been completed with all documentation provided as explained in the guidelines.
As the Economic Development Agency for Schuyler County, Schuyler County Partnership for Economic Development will assist in the administration of this grant by reviewing the applications and working with each project sponsor.
For a list of past awards, the grant guidelines, the application, and more information, please visit https://www.flxgateway.com/downtown-improvement-fund.
Applications are due September 6, 2023.
