Facade Grant Program

The Façade Grant Program is a collaborative initiative between the City of Jasper and Heart of Jasper, aimed at encouraging exterior improvements to both commercial and residential buildings located within the Downtown and Riverfront areas of Jasper, Indiana. Designed to stimulate retail growth, beautify neighborhoods, and catalyze investment through enhanced aesthetics, the program offers financial assistance to property owners undertaking exterior renovations in these designated areas. As a tool for historic preservation and urban revitalization, the program reflects a commitment to community development and visual appeal. The grant operates in two distinct parts: the Commercial Property Improvement Program and the Home Improvement Program (HIP). Both components are structured as matching grants covering 50% of approved project costs, disbursed on a reimbursement basis. Eligible applicants must complete a design review and receive project approval prior to beginning any work. Final disbursement is contingent on documented construction costs and a successful inspection conducted by the Heart of Jasper Design Advisory Committee. The program emphasizes visual impact in its evaluation criteria, with higher priority given to projects that provide noticeable improvements to the streetscape. For commercial properties, the minimum total project cost must exceed $2,500, with a maximum reimbursement capped at $10,000 per project. Eligible work includes restoration or construction of facades in line with the City's 2020 design standards, improvements such as signage (reimbursed at 100% up to $800), architectural detailing, masonry repair, lighting, and other visually impactful exterior changes. The total pool of funding allocated for this component in 2026 is $50,000, and applicants must own property within the defined Heart of Jasper district. All properties must be current on taxes, free of liens, and in compliance with city codes to qualify. The Home Improvement Program, launched recently, mirrors the structure of the commercial program but is targeted exclusively toward residential properties near the downtown area. These grants aim to support homeowners in making visual upgrades to their homes, promoting a cohesive and attractive neighborhood appearance. Residential projects must exceed $1,500 in scope and are also capped at $10,000 in reimbursable funding. Additional priority is given to owner-occupied residences over rental properties. Eligible improvements include new or restored façades, roofing (as part of a larger project), lighting, painting, and hardscaping. Ineligible uses for both programs include interior work, paving, roof-only projects, and any improvements not visible from the public right-of-way. Applicants must submit a completed application form along with several required documents, including photographs of the existing structure, design samples and color palettes, contractor estimates, and documentation of property ownership or authorization from the property owner. No work may commence before official grant approval, and projects must be completed within nine months of receiving funding. A formal agreement will be executed between the applicant and Heart of Jasper outlining payment terms upon project completion. Applications for the 2026 funding cycle are currently being accepted, with a submission deadline of Wednesday, February 25, 2026. Due to the limited availability of funds, applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the $50,000 fund is exhausted. All applicants must comply with the City of Jasper’s Unified Development Ordinance, municipal codes, and design guidelines. Interested parties are encouraged to review the full policy details and program criteria on the Heart of Jasper website and to ensure complete documentation is submitted to support their application.