Commercial Façade Improvement Program for Businesses in Carson

The City of Carson's Commercial Façade Improvement Program is a local economic revitalization initiative designed to assist business owners and commercial property owners in upgrading and beautifying their storefronts. This effort is rooted in the city's broader economic development strategy, authorized by Section 206 of the City Charter and supported by California Government Code Section 53803. The program aims to stimulate private investment, enhance the visual appeal of commercial corridors, and contribute to community identity by offering financial incentives to eligible participants. This program is managed by the City of Carson’s Community Development Department and is targeted at commercial properties located on major streets such as Avalon Boulevard, Main Street, Sepulveda Boulevard, Carson Street, and Figueroa Street. The program offers two tiers of funding: a grant of up to $2,500 with no match required, and up to $25,000 with a dollar-for-dollar match from the applicant. For multi-tenant commercial centers, a significantly larger grant of up to $250,000 is available, provided that a minimum of $500,000 is spent on eligible improvements. All funding is provided on a reimbursement basis, contingent upon the completion of improvements and submission of proof of payment. Eligible improvements under the program are limited to exterior enhancements and ADA compliance-related upgrades. These include new or replacement signage (including neon or halo-lit signs), awnings, painting, surface treatments like stucco or brickwork, paving, masonry work, exterior lighting, fencing, plate glass window replacement, and landscaping. Notably, improvements must be permanent and affixed to the building or site. Temporary elements such as portable signage, benches, or umbrellas are ineligible. All projects must also conform to the City’s zoning, building, and signage ordinances. Applicants may be either property owners or tenants, with tenants required to submit written permission from property owners. Properties must be commercially zoned and currently in use for or intended to be used for commercial purposes. Additionally, applicants must ensure that taxes and insurance premiums are current, and sufficient hazard and flood insurance must be maintained for the duration of the improvement agreement. The application process includes several key steps. Applications are accepted and reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis. Program staff conducts eligibility screening, project scoping, and an initial property inspection. Once approved, applicants enter into a Façade Improvement Agreement with the City, at which point the project may begin. Applicants are responsible for hiring contractors and obtaining necessary permits. Environmental reviews are also required to ensure compliance with CEQA regulations before any funds are released. Key contact personnel for the program include James Nguyen (310-952-1700 ext. 1310), Jacob Collins (310-952-1700 ext. 1327), and the general program contact email at [email protected]. Applications and program guidelines are available in both English and Spanish. While the program does not specify fixed application deadlines, it operates on available funding, which means applications are accepted until funds are exhausted. Once exhausted, eligible applicants may be placed on a waiting list for future consideration.

Do not begin work until Improvement Agreement is fully executed; reimbursements only issued post-completion with proof; funding not guaranteed until agreement is signed.