Experience Chehalis accepting Applications for Downtown Facade Grants Program

The Facade Improvement Grant is a program offered by Experience Chehalis, a Main Street community organization focused on revitalizing the downtown Chehalis area. The program is administered through Experience Chehalis's Economic Vitality Committee, with the aim of enhancing the aesthetic and functional quality of the local commercial district. This program supports building and business owners in maintaining and restoring the historical character of downtown properties, thereby promoting economic reinvestment and improving the overall appeal of the community as a place to work, shop, and live. Funding for the Facade Improvement Grant comes in part from local businesses participating in the Main Street Tax Incentive Program. Businesses donating to Experience Chehalis receive a tax credit equal to 75 percent of their donation the following calendar year. The grant is intended for exterior improvements only, including work like painting, brick maintenance, historic feature restoration, new signage, lighting, weatherization of doors and windows, and new or replacement awnings visible from public rights-of-way. Eligibility is open to owners of businesses or commercial buildings within the defined Main Street Program Area. Grants are available up to a maximum of $2,500 per business or building, covering 75 percent of the project cost. Owners with multiple properties or businesses can apply separately for each eligible location. However, properties must have direct street-facing facades visible from the public right-of-way to qualify. Funding cannot be applied retroactively unless there was prior written communication and agreement with Experience Chehalis. Projects must start within 120 days of approval and be completed within 180 days unless an extension is granted. The application process includes submitting a completed application form, a signed improvement agreement, contractor bids, and invoices for design work. Optional materials such as historical photos, paint samples, and "before" photos can strengthen the application. All applications are reviewed by the Grant Committee and then forwarded to the Experience Chehalis Board for final approval. Reimbursement is made after submission and review of final invoices and proof of payment, with payments typically issued within a week. Applications are evaluated on several criteria including consistency of design for multiple applications on the same building, demonstration of need (such as code compliance or safety), historic preservation, potential visual impact, and project readiness. Preference is given to projects with all necessary city permits or exemptions in place. Additional design considerations include the use of high-quality materials and adherence to traditional architectural styles and appropriate color schemes. Contact information for the grant includes Experience Chehalis (info@experiencechehalis.com, 360-345-1738) and the City Planning Department (comdev@ci.chehalis.wa.us, 360-345-2229).