City of Salem Missing Historic Features Grant Program

The Historic Features Restoration Grant, provided by the City of Salem in Oregon, is designed to support historic property owners. Its core mission is to offer financial assistance that encourages the reconstruction of character-defining historic features, such as parapets, cornices, gables, transom windows, signs, and storefronts. This grant is specifically aimed at projects where such reconstruction is deemed essential for the public's understanding and appreciation of the property's historical significance. The program’s alignment with a broader mission of historical preservation is evident in its focus on maintaining the integrity and visual authenticity of Salem’s historic landscape. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are owners of historic properties within Salem. Specifically, eligible properties must either be "Historic Contributing" to the Salem Downtown Historic District or individually listed as a historic resource. Furthermore, the property must be situated within the Riverfront-Downtown Urban Renewal Boundary and have no outstanding property taxes. The overarching impact goal is to preserve and enhance the historical character of Salem, ensuring that its architectural heritage remains a visible and accessible part of the community. By supporting property owners, the grant aims to alleviate the financial burden associated with maintaining and restoring historically significant features. The grant prioritizes reconstruction efforts that include measures to preserve any remaining historic materials, features, and spatial relationships. A key focus is on ensuring that reconstruction is based on the accurate duplication of historic features and elements, substantiated by documentary or physical evidence. This approach actively discourages conjectural designs or the use of features from other historic properties, emphasizing authenticity and historical accuracy. Applicants must be able to demonstrate that a character-defining exterior feature will be restored using verifiable historic, physical, or photographic evidence, reinforcing the program's commitment to faithful restoration. The expected outcomes of this grant program include a tangible increase in the number of restored historic features across Salem's downtown area. Measurable results will be assessed through the successful completion of projects that adhere to the strict reconstruction guidelines, demonstrating accurate duplication of historical elements. The funding structure, offering up to $200,000 for fiscal year 2024-25 (with a maximum of $100,000 per application), underscores a strategic commitment to investing in the preservation of individual historic properties. The City of Salem's underlying theory of change appears to be that by providing targeted financial incentives and establishing rigorous criteria, it can empower property owners to act as stewards of the city's history, ultimately contributing to a more vibrant and historically rich urban environment for residents and visitors alike.