City of Rifle Facade Grant Program

The City of Rifle, Colorado, through the Greater Rifle Improvement Team (GRIT) in partnership with Rifle City Council, has launched the Façade Grant Program to provide financial support for exterior improvements to commercial buildings located within city limits. The program is designed to preserve Rifle’s architectural character, enhance the streetscape, stimulate economic activity, and foster community pride through well-maintained and aesthetically improved business districts. Eligible applicants include commercial property owners within the city of Rifle who are seeking to improve building façades that are visible to the public from the street or sidewalk. The grant offers up to $40,000 in matching funds per project, requiring a minimum 25% contribution from the applicant. Projects totaling up to $50,000 in cost are eligible under this funding structure. Although 25% matching is the standard, proposals demonstrating a significant community benefit may be considered with a lower match, at the discretion of the GRIT Advisory Board. Applications open September 1, 2025, and will be accepted until October 31, 2025, or until all funds are allocated. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis by the GRIT Advisory Board, which makes recommendations to the Rifle City Council for final funding approval. Projects must be completed within 180 days of permit issuance unless a formal extension is granted. Applicants are strongly encouraged to schedule a pre-application meeting with the GRIT Manager to confirm project scope and compliance before submitting a full application. Eligible improvements must comply with the City of Rifle’s municipal code, applicable building permits, and design standards. Qualifying improvements include painting (with historical and contextual color considerations), restoration of masonry (excluding high-pressure power washing), repair or replacement of doors and windows (with an emphasis on preserving original features), lighting installation, repair or addition of awnings, removal of inappropriate materials, and restoration of original architectural elements. Public art murals and architectural design assistance may also be considered if they enhance the public-facing aspect of the building. Preference will be given to projects that have high visibility along public streets, restore architecturally or historically significant features, or contribute to the revitalization of underutilized or vacant spaces. All applications must include architectural renderings or paint samples, project narratives, photographs of the building, two contractor estimates, site plans (where applicable), and proof of property ownership. All applicants must comply with the International Building Codes as enforced by the City of Rifle. Permit fees are not covered under this grant. For more information or to begin the process, interested property owners should contact Kim Burner, GRIT Manager, at 970-665-6496 or by email at kburner@rifleco.org.

Schedule a pre-application meeting with the GRIT Manager. Projects must be completed within 180 days of permit issuance unless extended. Applications reviewed on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted.