Town of Parachute Beautification Grant

The Beautification Grant offered by the Town of Parachute is a locally administered funding initiative designed to enhance the physical appearance and vitality of the community’s commercial corridors. The grant, which is managed by the Economic and Community Development Department, is part of the town’s broader revitalization efforts aimed at promoting economic development and improving the aesthetic appeal of key business districts. The Parachute Renewal Authority URA Commission provides final grant approvals, following administrative reviews by town staff. The grant reflects a commitment to supporting the visual transformation of Parachute’s commercial properties through targeted investments in exterior improvements. The core objective of the Beautification Grant is to encourage property and business owners within designated program boundaries to invest in aesthetic enhancements such as façade renovations, new paint, improved siding, sidewalk upgrades, and landscaping projects. The program offers awards of up to $5,000 per property during each grant cycle. However, it operates under a strict 1:1 matching requirement, meaning applicants must contribute an equal amount to the project. This cost-sharing model reinforces the collaborative nature of the initiative and ensures that grantees are equally invested in the transformation of their properties. Eligibility is restricted to owners and operators of licensed businesses located within the defined program area, with priority given to those situated in the town’s primary business districts. A map outlining the eligible area is provided as part of the application materials. The application process is comprehensive and demands the submission of several key documents: scaled drawings of the proposed improvements, photographs of the property’s current condition, written cost estimates, a detailed project budget, and a complete list of proposed materials and plants. If the applicant is not the property owner, a letter of support or proof of permission from the landlord is required. Applications for the 2026 grant cycle are scheduled to open in January 2026, with submissions due by March 2026. Award announcements and selections are expected in April 2026. All approved projects must be completed by October 31, 2026. Grant payments are disbursed as reimbursements following successful project completion. Applicants must submit a reimbursement request accompanied by dated receipts, canceled checks, and before-and-after photographs to receive their funds. All work must comply with local municipal codes and design guidelines. The Town of Parachute emphasizes the importance of completing all required documentation to be considered for funding. Submission may be completed either digitally via email or physically via mail or drop-off. Completed applications should be directed to Vinnie Tomasulo, the Economic and Community Development Director. The office is located at 222 Grand Valley Way, Parachute, Colorado 81635, and is open Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Contact with the grant administrator is encouraged prior to submitting applications to clarify requirements or project details. While specific evaluation criteria are not disclosed, the review process involves an initial completeness check by town staff, followed by a recommendation to the URA Commission for final approval. There is a clear focus on improving public-facing elements of commercial properties within priority business areas. The grant appears to recur annually, as suggested by the recurring language and timeline structure, and thus applicants who are not ready in the current cycle may prepare for future opportunities.