Schuyler County Expands Façade Improvement Program to Support More Business Reinvestment

wendy7316
18 hours ago
2 min read

Finger Lakes Gateway (a DBA of SCOPED, Inc.) is pleased to share updates to Schuyler County’s Façade Improvement Program, strengthening our commitment to supporting small businesses, revitalizing commercial districts, and encouraging private investment across the county.

Since launching in 2022, the program has awarded grants to 31 businesses, leveraging an estimated $2 million in private investment from approximately $292,000 in public funding—an impressive 8:1 private-to-public investment ratio. This track record highlights how strategic reinvestment in existing buildings can drive long-term economic vitality and stronger communities.

What the Façade Improvement Program Supports

The Schuyler County Façade Improvement Program provides reimbursable grant funding for improvements that enhance the exterior appearance of existing commercial and mixed-use buildings. Projects will help strengthen streetscapes, improve building visibility, and contribute to the overall character and competitiveness of Schuyler County’s downtowns and commercial areas. Grant awards range from $5,000 to $25,000, with a required minimum 50% private match.

Eligible improvements include:

Painting and exterior repairs
Signage and storefront enhancements
Masonry and window repairs
Accessibility improvements
Other visible façade upgrades
Certain public-facing site improvements
Limited design or engineering costs (in some cases)

Program Updates: More Flexibility, More Opportunity

These updates are designed to ensure strong projects from across Schuyler County can compete—while maintaining a focus on public benefit, project readiness, and measurable impact.

Key changes include:

✅ Rolling applications now accepted year-round

✅ Projects reviewed quarterly (or as needed) by the Façade Improvement Program Review Committee

✅ Updated scoring criteria allow eligible projects outside village centers or main corridors to be competitively evaluated

✅ Owner labor is not reimbursable, but may be considered as part of the project scope and overall commitment to reinvestment

Ready to Apply?

If you’re a property owner or business interested in enhancing your building’s exterior and improving your visibility, we encourage you to explore the program and begin planning your project.

👉 Find the application and guidelines here: Facade Improvement Program

⬇️ Read the full press release here.