Facade Improvement Grant Program Generating Visible Changes Downtown

Downtown Mesquite’s first Facade Improvement Program grant program projects has been completed. Metzger Awards at 105 W. Main St. recently underwent a series of improvements, including:

New paint that highlights architectural features of the 1950s property

Custom metal awning and brackets

New signage

New lighting and wiring

The owner of the property and business, Bill Metzger, notes that the changes have brought positive attention and increased visits to Metzger Awards. He is so happy with the results that he plans on applying for a grant for an additional property just a few doors down.

Another facade grant recipient is the Boyce Building at 202 W. Davis; this property will be improved with the installation of a new awning, as well as cleaning of the brick exterior.

Facade improvement grants, which are in the form of a reimbursement, cover 50% of the cost of a façade rehabilitation up to $20,000. The program is funded by the Towne Centre Tax Increment Finance Reinvestment Zone No. Two, and a pool of $80,000 is available through the current fiscal year, which ends Sept. 30.

Projects must be vetted by the Downtown Mesquite Development Advisory Board and approved by City Council before work commences on any façade project. Once the façade rehabilitation is completed, it will be inspected for adherence to the proposal. If the façade work is true to the approved plan, the property or business owner will receive a reimbursement check.

The façade grant program can be coupled with free design services also made available to downtown business and property owners. By virtue of being part of the Texas Main Street Program, Downtown Mesquite has access to historic preservation architects who will provide architectural renderings, scopes of work and technical assistance briefs to owners in the downtown area free of charge. Abell noted that those considering applying for a façade grant will be encouraged to consult with the Texas Main Street architects before proceeding.

To see the complete Downtown Mesquite Facade Improvement Program policy, procedures and application, click here.

Call City of Mesquite Downtown Development Manager Beverly Abell at (972) 216-6450 for more information.