Municipal Service District Building Improvement Grant

The Downtown Kinston Revitalization Municipal Service District Building Improvement Grant for 2024-2025 is designed to enhance the visual appeal and preserve the historical architecture of Kinston's Downtown Historic Commercial District. This grant focuses on improving the façades of buildings within the Municipal Service District (MSD), with the ultimate goal of revitalizing the downtown area to attract more businesses, preserve historical elements, and encourage high-quality craftsmanship. The grant emphasizes projects that make a visible impact on public-facing façades, although rear façades may also qualify if they are significant to the project's goals. The grant supports a range of exterior improvements such as removing false fronts, restoring metal canopies, installing canvas awnings, cleaning brick or stonework safely, replacing exterior windows and doors to match the original design, and performing historic reconstruction. Some interior projects, such as restoring historic architectural details like pressed metal ceilings or wood floors, may also qualify. However, general interior remodeling, furniture, fixtures, and business signage are not eligible for funding. Additionally, government buildings, tax-exempt properties, and buildings outside the MSD boundaries are ineligible for this grant. Applicants for this grant can be either property owners or business tenants within the MSD, but a business tenant must have the property owner's written consent. Only one application is allowed per building improvement, even if the building houses multiple businesses. The grant requires a 1:1 funding match from the applicant, and the maximum grant award is capped at $10,000 for projects costing $20,000 or more. Importantly, funding is only disbursed after project completion and inspection by the Downtown Kinston Executive Director. To apply, potential applicants must submit a detailed scope of work along with contractor quotes. Applications are reviewed by the Downtown Kinston Design Committee and the Board of Directors, who make final decisions on funding. Applicants are encouraged to complete the work within four months of approval, with extensions possible under certain conditions. Projects must begin within 60 days of approval, and changes to the project after approval can nullify the grant. Priority is given to projects that make a significant and highly visible design impact on the downtown area. All work must meet the zoning and code requirements of the City of Kinston. Additionally, while a property does not have to be occupied during the application process, the work must be completed as described for the grant to be awarded. Applications must be submitted by November 1, 2024, and funding is limited, so early application is encouraged. Once the project is completed, the applicant must submit proof of payment for all expenses to receive reimbursement.