The Schuyler County Legislature, in partnership with Schuyler County Partnership for Economic Development, is now accepting applications for round three of the Downtown & Business ARPA Program, aimed at downtown revitalization with a match grant program to assist with building façade improvements.
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 $150,000 is still available, and applications will be accepted through January 13, 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.
“The Schuyler County Legislature is pleased to reopen this grant program for a third round of funding” noted Schuyler County Administrator, Fonda Chronis. “The visible integrity of our downtown area is vital to show progress and growth in our county. Making our downtown districts attractive and approachable will help our business owners and communities continue that forward momentum, and encourage additional private investment.”
Schuyler County Partnership for Economic Development will once again assist with the administration of the grant, and will be reviewing applications on behalf of the County and working with each project sponsor. As the Economic Development Agency for Schuyler County, SCOPED is equally pleased that there is additional money for this program.
“The investment into our small businesses and properties is an appropriate and necessary avenue for these funds,” remarked Schuyler County Partnership Executive Director, Judy McKinney Cherry. “The American Rescue Plan Act was created to alleviate hardships imposed on our most vulnerable communities and businesses. The action of the County Legislature to create this program with a portion of their ARPA allocation was not only forward-thinking but shows the commitment Schuyler County has to support its businesses and property owners.”
Full a full list of requirements, grant guidelines, and the application, go to: www.tinyurl.com/SCDIFR3. Applications are due by January 13, 2023.