The City is pleased to announce the Main Street Façade Improvement Grant program, which encourages business and property owners to make physical improvements to building exteriors and their surroundings.

The grant may be used to improve commercial properties located within the Maryland Main Street Takoma, including the Old Town and Takoma Junction commercial areas. Eligible activities include visible improvements to building exteriors and their surroundings, such as signage, awnings, and lighting.

The program will provide up to a $1,000 grant plus an additional dollar for dollar match up to 50% of the overall improvement cost, not exceeding $10,000, for eligible improvement expenses. The total grant shall not exceed $11,000 total per storefront or business.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to discuss potential improvements with staff prior to making a submission. Main Street Façade Improvement Grant application must be submitted no later than January 31, 2012. Facade Improvement Grant Application is available for download by clicking HERE. (PDF) UPDATES: Council adopted Design Guidelines The Council adopted the Design Guidelines on July 25, 2011. Read the guidelines for design ideas on eligible improvement projects. For more information, contact Nima Upadhyay at 301-891-7219 or via email at NimaU@takomagov.org.