Square Facade Program
Revitalize the Square—One Facade at a Time
The Square TIF District Facade Grant Program is your opportunity to enhance Independence Square's charm and character. Whether you're looking to restore historic features or make structural improvements, this program helps property owners invest in the future while preserving the past. With up to 90% reimbursement on eligible costs, now is the perfect time to be part of the Square’s transformation.
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Overview
The purpose of the program is to encourage appropriate facade and structural improvements to buildings located in the Square TIF District to:
- Improve the appearance and preserve the historic character of buildings on the Square
- Preserve historic buildings through the maintenance of building facades
- Enhance safety for visitors to the Square
- Promote commercial vitality and increase economic activity on the Square
- Maintain and enhance property values
- Add to the quality of life in the community through the beautification of the Square
Program Guidelines
- Grant Amount: Up to $100,000 per calendar year
- Reimbursement: 90% of project costs
- Required match: 10% of project costs
- City-sponsored public art projects are exempt from match requirements
- Work done before grant approval is not eligible
- Applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis
- Grants reimburse actual expenses only
- Reviewed per the TIF Plan and with input from:
- Square Design Committee
- Mayor’s Advisory Commission on the Arts (City-sponsored public art)
- Private artwork must include a rendering for review
- Artwork with a commercial message requires a sign permit
- Projects on historic properties may need approval from the City Heritage Commission
Contractor Requirements
- Must be licensed, insured, registered, and pass legal checks
- Must secure all required permits and comply with local building codes
Eligible Costs
Reimbursable improvements may include, but are not limited to:
- Exterior repairs: tuckpointing, painting, masonry, cornice repair
- Windows & exterior doors: repair, removal, replacement
- Exterior lighting (new lighting only with other major improvements)
- Signage (new signage only with other major improvements)
- Awnings & canopies (new awnings only with other major improvements)
- Approved facade murals and artwork
- Architectural restoration (e.g., removing materials covering historic features)
- Window & cornice flashing and repair
- Additional work as defined in the Independence Square TIF Plan
Ineligible Properties
Ineligible properties include, but are not limited to the following:
- Owe delinquent taxes
- Are involved in litigation, condemnation, or receivership
- Have outstanding code violations (unless fixed as part of the grant project)
| Questions regarding the Independence Square TIF Facade Grant Program may be addressed to the City Community Development Department at jbaker@indepmo.org. |