City Buena Vista Façade Improvement Grant Program

The Façade Improvement Grant Program (FIGP) is administered by the City of Buena Vista Economic Development Department and supported by the Economic Development Authority (EDA). It is designed to assist in revitalizing and preserving the architectural character of the city’s business districts and gateway corridors. By offering financial support to property owners and eligible tenants, the program aims to enhance the external aesthetics of buildings while fostering broader economic development within designated areas of the city. This grant program offers reimbursement-based funding for eligible exterior improvements made to street-facing facades. Applicants may receive up to 50% of project costs reimbursed, capped at a maximum of $5,000 per property. The funding covers both labor and materials when performed by external contractors. However, if the work is performed by the property owner or a contractor owned by the property owner, only materials are reimbursable. Each property may only receive grant funding once every three years to ensure equitable distribution of resources. Eligible applicants include commercial property owners and business tenants within the designated FIGP eligibility area. Tenants must obtain written consent from the property owner and submit a copy of the lease. Additionally, owners of visually blighted residential properties that detract from the community’s appearance or economic value may apply. All applicants must be in good financial standing with the City of Buena Vista and must secure any required permits before starting work. Projects eligible for funding include painting, lighting upgrades, masonry repair, restoration of architectural features, and the installation or repair of gutters, awnings, and canopies, among others. Improvements must comply with the city’s design guidelines as outlined in its Code of Ordinances. Ineligible expenses include interior work, landscaping, general maintenance, security systems, and roofing projects. The application window for the FY26 funding cycle opens on September 15, 2025, and closes on October 30, 2025, at 4:00 PM. Award notifications are expected in November 2025, and all funded projects must be completed by May 29, 2026. Applications must include photographs of the proposed project area, a budget with contractor quotes, and, if applicable, tenant documentation. Submissions can be made in person, via email, or by mail. The grant selection process includes an eligibility and compliance review by city staff, followed by evaluation and final award decisions made by the EDA. Successful applicants must sign a grant contract, comply with signage and inspection requirements, and provide proof of payment for reimbursement. Questions can be directed to Kristina Ramsey or Ally Haney at the Department of Economic Development via business@bvcity.org or 540-261-8608.