The Vacant Property Revitalization (VPR) Program, overseen by the Lewis County Development Corporation (LCDC), aims to rejuvenate vacant or blighted commercial buildings within Lewis County’s downtown areas. This reimbursement-based grant program covers up to 50% of eligible project costs, capped at $100,000 per project, encouraging property owners to restore underused spaces into active business or mixed-use facilities. Designed to drive economic growth, the program seeks to increase foot traffic, create job opportunities, elevate the property tax base, and improve community quality of life. Eligible properties must be vacant, require substantial rehabilitation, and comply with local zoning and permitting requirements. Grant recipients are expected to complete projects within one year of approval, with work beginning within six months. Additionally, recipients must retain ownership for at least five years after project completion; if the property is sold within this timeframe, a prorated grant repayment is required. The program mandates a $1 million general liability insurance policy, inclusive of fire and theft coverage, listing LCDC as an additional insured. LCDC provides support at each project milestone, helping with planning and ensuring compliance, and conducts annual site visits for three years post-completion to confirm the spaces are either occupied or actively marketed for rental.
