City of Salem Missing Historic Features Grant Program
This grant provides financial support to owners of historic properties in Salem to restore important architectural features that contribute to the building's historical significance.
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 programโs alignment with a broader mission of historical preservation is evident in its focus on maintaining the integrity and visual authenticity of Salemโs 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.
Award Range
Not specified - $100,000
Total Program Funding
$200,000
Number of Awards
Not specified
Matching Requirement
No
Eligible Applicants
Additional Requirements
Historical proporty owners.
Geographic Eligibility
Salem (OR)
Next Deadline
August 16, 2024
Letter of Intent
Application Opens
August 2, 2024
Application Closes
November 8, 2024
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