4 Culture Landmarks Capital Grant

The Landmarks Capital grant is administered by 4Culture, a public cultural agency that funds and supports arts, heritage, preservation, and public art projects across King County, Washington. 4Culture is financed through public revenue from Lodging Tax, the 1% for Art program, and the Doors Open initiative, all designed to enhance public access to cultural experiences. This grant program is part of its broader mission to preserve the built heritage of the region, supporting projects that maintain and rehabilitate designated historic landmarks. The purpose of the Landmarks Capital grant is to provide financial assistance for rehabilitation efforts that preserve the physical integrity and historical significance of landmark properties throughout King County. Eligible projects include stabilization, restoration, or repair of historic building materials, essential building systems, and historically significant landscapes. Funds may also be used for architectural and engineering services directly linked to construction. While matching funds are not required, projects may not use funds for new additions, equipment purchases, general planning studies, or operating expenses. Eligibility for the grant is open to individuals, businesses, organizations, and local governments that are owners or long-term leaseholders of officially designated historic properties within King County. The property must be designated at the local level or be located in a jurisdiction without a local historic preservation ordinance if listed on the National Register of Historic Places. K–12 schools and school districts are not eligible. Additional funding consideration is given to projects centered on marginalized communities or located in equity investment areas outside of Seattle or within specific disadvantaged zip codes as designated by the King County Communities of Opportunity index. The application process requires submission of a detailed narrative addressing criteria such as project quality, public benefit, economic impact, equity, feasibility, and experience. Applicants must provide demographic data, contractor bids, and five to eight current photographs of the property. Optional supplementary materials include letters of support, plans, or assessments. Workshops and office hours are offered to guide applicants, and first-time applicants are encouraged to schedule a consultation with Program Manager Dana Phelan. The deadline to apply is June 25, 2025, by 5:00 PM PDT. Awards will be announced following board approval on September 24, 2025, with projects eligible to begin as early as September 25, 2025. All projects must be completed by December 31, 2027. A panel of historic preservation experts and community members evaluates applications, which are recommended for funding to the 4Culture Board. Selected applicants will enter into a contract that includes a reimbursement-based payment schedule. For further support, applicants can contact Dana Phelan at dana.phelan@4culture.org or call 206-263-1604. For general assistance and technical questions, contact Maisha Barnett at maisha.barnett@4culture.org or 206-477-9877. Applicants requiring accommodations or translation services are encouraged to reach out to hello@4culture.org or call 206-296-7580.