2024-2025 Facade & Property Enhancement Grant

The Façade & Property Enhancement grant, offered by the Village of Libertyville in Illinois, is designed to stimulate improvements to dated or deteriorated commercial building facades and site conditions within specific commercially zoned districts (C-2 and C-3) outside the downtown area. This matching grant program provides funding up to $25,000, with individual awards ranging from $1,000 to $10,000. The grant aims to enhance the overall aesthetic and functional appeal of commercial properties, contributing to local economic vitality and aligning with the Village's Comprehensive Plan and, where applicable, the South Milwaukee Avenue Corridor Plan. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are commercial businesses and property owners located within the designated C-2 Downtown Community Commercial or C-3 General Commercial zoning districts. The program specifically targets structures with existing dated or deteriorated facades or site conditions, or commercial buildings with first-floor commercial uses. The impact goals are to encourage property enhancements that are visible from arterial roadways, moving beyond mere maintenance to create significant improvements that contribute positively to the community's appearance and economic health. This initiative supports the Village's broader strategic priorities of fostering a vibrant commercial environment and improving the quality of its commercial corridors. The grant prioritizes projects that enhance the property's overall appearance and functionality, with a strong focus on visibility from arterial roadways. Eligible uses include front wall improvements, doors, windows, decorative elements, landscaping, sidewalks, pavement, new permanent outdoor dining areas, signage, awnings, lighting, and trash enclosures. It's crucial that these individual elements are part of a larger exterior improvement effort, not just replacements or routine maintenance. Up to $5,000 of the award can be allocated to design and professional service costs, highlighting the program's emphasis on thoughtful and well-executed enhancements. Expected outcomes include a visible improvement in the physical appearance of commercial properties, leading to increased attractiveness for businesses and customers. Projects are given 12 months for completion, ensuring timely execution of planned enhancements. The requirement for a business plan to be submitted with the application, along with potential referral to an IL Small Business Development Center (SBDC) counselor for business or marketing plan development, suggests an integrated approach to supporting sustainable business growth alongside property improvements. The grant's theory of change posits that by investing in the physical infrastructure of commercial properties, the Village can stimulate economic activity, enhance community aesthetics, and support the long-term viability of local businesses.