Façade and Property Improvement Grant Program

The La Mesa Facade and Property Improvement Grant Program is a financial assistance initiative established under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) of 2021. The program, initially launched as a two-year pilot, was funded by the City of La Mesa to support local businesses in enhancing their properties through facade and exterior improvements. The goal is to improve the economic climate by funding upgrades to commercial, industrial, retail, and office buildings within the city. The program is now entering its fourth year in 2025, with a new round of funding available to eligible businesses. Applications for the 2025 funding cycle will open at 8:00 AM on Monday, February 3, 2025. The grants are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, contingent upon the availability of funds. Properties that have received funding in previous years are ineligible for additional funding. Additionally, business or property owners with multiple properties may only apply for one location. Projects that require plan reviews or permits should be ready for submission upon grant approval. The grant provides financial assistance based on a property’s linear frontage along a public way. Awards range from $14,000 for properties with a frontage of 10-49 feet to $25,000 for properties with 150 feet or more of frontage. The first $5,000 of any awarded amount requires no match from the applicant. Any grant funds beyond $5,000 require a 50% match from the recipient. For example, an applicant awarded the maximum $25,000 grant must contribute $10,000 in matching funds to receive the full award. This structure encourages additional private investment while ensuring a more substantial impact on property improvements. Eligible improvements include significant facade renovations, restoration of historical features, landscaping, new roofing (as part of a broader facade improvement), upgraded signage and awnings, murals, trash enclosures, screening of rooftop equipment, and the creation of outdoor patio spaces. Ineligible improvements include new building construction, general maintenance, interior renovations, parking lot paving, and chain-link fencing. All improvements must enhance the property's appearance and contribute to the surrounding environment. To qualify, properties must be located within La Mesa city limits and must be used for retail, commercial, industrial, or office purposes. The project must comply with all city codes, and applicants cannot have active code enforcement cases at the time of submission. Applicants who lease their buildings must secure written consent from the property owner before applying. Grants are reimbursement-based, meaning funds are only disbursed after the completion of work and verification of expenses. The application process includes an online submission, followed by a review by the Program Administrator and a pre-application meeting with the Community Development Department. If approved, the applicant will receive a Letter of Commitment specifying the grant amount and required completion timeline. Upon final approval and project completion, applicants must submit proof of payment and final photographs before reimbursement is issued. The program is administered by the City Manager’s Office, and inquiries should be directed to Lyn Dedmon at (619) 667-1339 or ldedmon@cityoflamesa.us.