Western Avenue Commercial Storefront Improvement Program

The City of Rancho Palos Verdes has established the Western Avenue Commercial Storefront Improvement Program to support the revitalization of the Western Avenue Commercial Corridor. On September 17, 2024, the City Council approved the program to provide financial assistance to commercial businesses and property owners in the designated program area. The program was created to enhance the physical appearance and economic vitality of the corridor by supporting visible improvements to storefronts. The goal is to create a more inviting commercial environment that will attract customers, improve accessibility, and strengthen the local business community. The program operates on a matching grant basis, with the City covering up to fifty percent of eligible project costs. Funding is divided into three tiers based on the scope and scale of improvements. Tier 1 is intended for non-architectural elements such as exterior paint, signage, and awnings, with a reimbursement ceiling of five thousand dollars. Tier 2 expands eligibility to include significant storefront enhancements such as structural upgrades, complete window replacements, and ADA-compliant entryways, with a reimbursement ceiling of ten thousand dollars. Tier 3 is reserved for multi-tenant commercial buildings with three or more tenants and allows funding for Tier 1 and Tier 2 type improvements, with a maximum reimbursement of twenty thousand dollars. Applicants must be commercial businesses located within the program area along Western Avenue. Both independent businesses and franchises or chain retailers are eligible. All improvements must be visible from the street and contribute to enhancing the overall appearance of the building. Eligible improvements include exterior paint, removal of old signage or clutter, repair or replacement of exterior finishes, new ADA-compliant doors, window replacement, installation of awnings and exterior lighting, landscaping, signs, storefront refacing, code remediation, and construction of outdoor dining and gathering areas. Improvements not specifically listed may also be considered if they improve the storefront’s condition or appearance. Applications for Round 3 of the program will be accepted beginning September 8, 2025, with a closing deadline of October 31, 2025. The program is recurring, with previous cycles already completed, indicating that funding rounds are planned on a regular basis. Applications must be submitted via email to WesternStorefrontProgram@rpvca.gov. Virtual information sessions and program guidelines are provided by the City to assist applicants in preparing submissions. All program documentation, including maps, applications, sample grant agreements, and Q&A resources, is available on the City’s official website. The City will review applications to ensure compliance with program requirements, eligibility, and the appropriateness of proposed improvements. Decisions regarding funding amounts and match flexibility may be made on a case-by-case basis. Matching contributions are required, with the City reimbursing half of eligible costs up to the tier-specific maximum. No information was provided regarding the total funding allocation for the program or the expected number of awards. For questions or to submit an application, applicants may contact the program team via email at WesternStorefrontProgram@rpvca.gov. The City of Rancho Palos Verdes can also be reached by phone at 310-544-5200 or at their offices at 30940 Hawthorne Boulevard, Rancho Palos Verdes, California, 90275. The City provides all official guidance and documentation for the program, and applicants are encouraged to review the guidelines and attend information sessions to ensure compliance with requirements and to prepare complete and competitive applications.