Minor Exterior Improvements Grant Program

The City of Kingston, New York, in partnership with NYS Homes and Community Renewal, is offering the Minor Exterior Improvements Grant Program as part of the broader Stockade Business District Small Grants Program. This initiative is focused on enhancing the visual and structural integrity of commercial properties within the Uptown Stockade Business District of Kingston. The program seeks to support property owners who are investing in exterior improvements, particularly in signage and awnings, to help revitalize the historic district and maintain its aesthetic integrity. The program is administered at the local level by the City of Kingston and is supported with state-level funding and procurement oversight. A total of approximately $70,000 remains available for this funding round. Property owners of commercial buildings located within the defined geographic boundaries of the Uptown Stockade Business District are eligible to apply for grant awards ranging from $1,000 to $9,000. The total project cost may not exceed $10,000, and all expenses must be pre-approved, directly related to eligible work, and incurred within the grant contract period. Eligible expenses include the installation of projecting or wall signage and awnings, with lighting also allowable if bundled with a sign or awning project performed by the same vendor. The goal is to enhance the visibility and curb appeal of commercial buildings in a way that aligns with the historic character of the area. The grant program is restricted to commercial property owners. Business tenants may not apply directly; they must work with property owners, who retain sole applicant status and are responsible for payment and reimbursement processes. Entities such as religious institutions, municipalities, and private membership-based organizations are not eligible. Additionally, any costs incurred prior to the official start date of the grant agreement or provided as in-kind contributions are ineligible for reimbursement. The application process requires applicants to submit a completed application along with a detailed, itemized cost estimate and design specifications from a professional vendor. A critical step involves obtaining design approval from the City’s Planning Department, which typically involves a desk review. This approval must be documented and included with the application. Only complete applications that include both the estimate and the approval letter will be reviewed for funding consideration. The timeline for the 2026 cycle of this program is well defined. Applications opened on March 13, 2026, and will close at 4:30 p.m. on April 17, 2026. Award notifications are scheduled for April 30, 2026, with grant contracts beginning May 30, 2026. Construction must commence by August 30, 2026, and be completed no later than October 31, 2026. Reimbursement requests must be submitted by November 30, 2026, which is also the official end of the contract period. City staff are actively involved in supporting applicants and project implementation. In addition to the review process, the City may conduct its own bidding process for façade improvements where multiple property owners opt-in. Property owners who choose to implement projects independently will be supported with historic preservation guidance and resources through the City's Planning Office and the Historic Landmark Preservation Commission. Interested applicants are encouraged to consult directly with the Planning Office for additional guidance or to schedule a deskside review.

Meet with the Planning Office early to review your designs and secure approval before submitting your application.