Wauchula CRA Revitalization Program 2024

The City of Wauchula's Revitalization Grant Program aims to restore and improve commercial buildings within the Wauchula Community Redevelopment Agency (WCRA) District. This initiative is designed to enhance the physical, economic, social, and aesthetic well-being of the city. The program's core mission aligns with urban revitalization and community development, focusing on improving private properties beyond the minimum requirements of the City of Wauchula’s Land Development Regulations. The overarching goal is to enhance the form, function, and design quality of the redevelopment district, thereby contributing to a more vibrant and prosperous Wauchula. The target beneficiaries of this grant program are property owners or their registered agents within the WCRA District who own commercial buildings. The program specifically excludes properties that do not collect property tax, do not contribute to the CRA Tax Increment Financing Fund (TIFF), or are primarily used for residential purposes. The impact goals are to encourage significant improvements to commercial properties, stimulate economic growth by enhancing business environments, and improve the overall aesthetic appeal of the district. This leads to a more attractive and functional urban core, benefiting both businesses and residents. The program prioritizes projects that go beyond standard compliance, fostering a higher quality of development. Key focuses include the restoration and improvement of commercial buildings, with an emphasis on project construction costs as eligible expenses, while design and permitting costs are explicitly excluded. Applicants are required to provide three quotes for project elements, ensuring transparency and competitive pricing. Another focus is on long-term impact, with project elements required to remain unchanged for five years and approved applicants ineligible to apply for the same property address for a five-year period. Expected outcomes include a noticeable enhancement in the appearance and functionality of commercial properties within the WCRA District, leading to increased commercial activity and a more appealing urban environment. Measurable results will be assessed through the completion of approved projects, evidenced by official Certificates of Occupancy or Completion, and adherence to grant agreements. The program's success will also be indicated by the number of properties revitalized and the subsequent positive impact on the local economy and community well-being. The WCRA's strategic priorities are to foster a thriving commercial district through incentivized development that conforms to the City of Wauchula Land Development Code. The underlying theory of change is that by offering financial incentives for property improvements, the city can stimulate private investment, which in turn will lead to a broader revitalization of the commercial district, attracting businesses and residents and enhancing the overall quality of life.