HomeMy WebLinkAboutV.C.i__Rosemount Downtown Grant Pilot Program Guidelines
F a ç a d e I m p r o v e m e n t G r a n t
P r o g r a m
Purpose
The City of Rosemount recognizes the important role that a vibrant, authentic downtown plays in the
City’s vitality. Strategic Planning efforts of the Rosemount Port Authority identify Downtown
Revitalization as an important objective. A well-maintained and attractive public realm reflects
community pride and contributes to urban vitality. The Port Authority and City Staff has long
discussed establishing a fund to assist building owners with improvements to façade and landscaping
that enhances the quality and appeal of Downtown Rosemount. The Façade Improvement Grant
Program aims to strengthen, revitalize and sustain the Downtown by encouraging and assisting
property owners to make improvements to buildings within the district. By providing a financial
incentive, the program will stimulate private investment and support stabilized and increased property
values. The Port Authority is funding this one-year pilot program and review the program outcomes
before making adjustments as necessary in subsequent years.
Eligibility
The pilot program district will by synonymous with the area identified in the Development Framework
for Downtown Rosemount, described the area of Rosemount that lies along Highway 3 (South Robert
Trail) between 143rd Street and County Road 42. Building owners and commercial tenants (with
property owner’s approval) of commercial properties within the project area can apply for a downtown
grant. For-profit and not-for-profit entities are eligible to apply, as long as the grant is used for a
commercial building. Additionally, applicant business must be operational for one or more years.
Eligible Uses
Grant dollars may be used for improvements to the exterior of buildings including brick replacement
and repair, window and door replacement/repair, installation of new windows and glass doors, awnings
and signs, exterior steps/entrances, landscaping (trees and shrubs only), lighting and related permanent
improvements.
Grant Amount
Grant funds must be matched 1:1 with private dollars. Grant amounts may range from $1,000 up to
$5,000 ($2,000-$10,000+ total project cost) per property.
Number of Grants
The City will offer downtown grants totaling up to $20,000 annually. Each applicant is eligible for one
grant per calendar year. Grants will be awarded on a first come first serve basis. If eligible grant
requests exceed the total funding capacity, the Port Authority will consider additional funding.
Payments
This is a reimbursement program. Applicants must complete all improvements and pay for the total
project cost or total private match, prior to receiving a reimbursement check from the City. Applicants
shall submit a copy of the invoice for the grant related improvement to the City.
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Design Standards and Process
All projects must meet the criteria identified in the City Code under 11-4-11: DT DOWNTOWN
DISTRICT. Applicants will work with staff to determine if grant eligible activities can proceed with
administrative review or require Planning Commission review on a case by case basis.
The City of Rosemount requires permits for most of the eligible improvements listed above. For
questions about permits, please visit the Building Permit and Inspections Department at
https://ci.rosemount.mn.us/315/Applications-Permits-and-Inspections.
Reporting
Businesses will be required to provide “before and after” photos of the project to the City.