Façade Improvement Grant Program – Application Period Now Open

Kristina RamseyNews

The City of Buena Vista is excited to announce that the application period for the 2025 Façade Improvement Grant Program (FIGP) is now open!

The Façade Improvement Grant Program (FIGP) is designed to help local property owners and tenants enhance the exterior appearance of their properties. The program provides financial assistance for exterior building improvements, with the goal of promoting economic growth, preserving historic architecture, and enhancing the overall visual appeal of Buena Vista’s business districts and gateway corridors.

Key Program Details

  • Grant Amount: Up to 50% reimbursement of eligible project costs, with a maximum grant of $5,000 per property
  • Eligible Applicants: Commercial property owners and tenants (with property owner approval) and owners of visually blighted residential properties within the designated program area.
  • Eligible Improvements: Exterior, street-facing property improvements, including but not limited to painting, architectural restoration, lighting upgrades, masonry repairs, and other enhancements as outlined in the program guide.
  • Application Opens: Application period opens January 7, 2025
  • Application Deadline: The application period closes on February 7, 2025

For full list of eligibility criteria and program details, see the Facade Improvement Program Guide.

How to Apply

The application process is simple, but all applicants must meet certain eligibility criteria and submit required documentation. You can download the full program guide and application form below.

  • Program Guide: Learn more about eligibility, program requirements, and types of eligible improvements.
  • Application Form: Download the application form to get started on your project.

Submission: All applications and attachments should be submitted to Kristina Ramsey, Director of Economic Development in one of the following ways:

  • In person: 2nd Floor of City Hall, 2039 Sycamore Ave., Buena Vista, VA 24416
  • By Email: [email protected]
  • By mail: 2039 Sycamore Ave., Buena Vista, VA 24416
    • MUST BE RECEIVED BY THE DEADLINE – be sure to mail early or plan to submit another way.

Important Dates

  • Application Deadline: All applications must be submitted by February 7, 2025.
  • Grant Notification: Successful applicants will be notified in late February 2025.
  • Project Completion Deadline: All approved projects must be completed and receipts submitted by June 15, 2025.

Program Administration

The Façade Improvement Grant Program is managed by the City’s Economic Development Department, with oversight and support from the Economic Development Authority (EDA). The EDA will serve as the review panel, ensuring that applications are selected through a fair and transparent process.

Questions?

For more information, or if you have questions about the application process, please contact:
Kristina Ramsey
Economic Development Director
Phone: (540) 261-8607
Email: [email protected]