Economic Main Page
Economic Profile
Development News
Programs
FAQs
Contact Information
Back to Home Page
About Skokie
Residents
Business
Visitors
Search
|
Facade Improvement Grants
The Village operates a Facade Assistance Program as part of the Downtown redevelopment effort. Eligible participants are limited to owners and tenants of commercial buildings in the B-5 Downtown Zoning District. The program provides free design services and matching grants to cover 50% of the building's facade renovation costs. The maximum grant is $50,000 for a single facade, or $100,000 for a building with two or more facades facing public property.
The goal of the Facade Assistance Program is to create attractive buildings with a traditional architectural style. The emphasis is on practical design principles that employ masonry materials, an abundance of storefront glass, and simple yet attractive signage. The Village has retained the services of a private architect to assist applicants in designing building improvements. Construction funding is typically deposited into an escrow account along with the property owner's share for payouts to contractors or material suppliers. Twelve buildings have been completed under the program.
Due to the success of the Downtown program, a similar facade improvement effort was implemented for the Southeast Industrial Area. Matching funds were available in the Special Service Areas from St. Louis Avenue to Hamlin Avenue Touhy Avenue on the south and Howard Street on the north. This program included a maximum grant of $20,000 for a single facade, or $40,000 for a corner building. About 15 facade renovations completed in this area. The program is now concluded in the area, but facade improvement funding is expected to be implemented in other industrial areas in the future
|