Main Street announces facade grants

RUSSELLVILLE – Downtown business owners have the chance to apply for up to $2,500 in grant money to enhance their building exteriors.

Russellville Main Street Executive Director Kara Shelnutt said the goal of the $25,000 facade improvement grant program is to “get as much out of it as we can for our downtown district.”

Shelnutt said those interested in applying for the grant should fill out the inquiry form and provide any supporting evidence needed. The money will be disbursed “on a first come, first served basis.” Successful applicants can:

Guidelines state businesses can receive up to $1,000 for projects costing between $50 and $1,000.

For projects costing over $1,001, a business can receive up to $2,500.

Proposed projects have to be approved by the Main Street Design Committee before any work can begin.Shelnutt said in some cases, the city’s Downtown Revitalization Committee may also have to review the project.

The project must also have the consent of the building owner.

Once the Russellville Main Street board approves a project, it must be completed within 90 days.

Shelnutt said examples of projects include a new awning, improvements to doors or windows, and replacing or improving existing outside signs, making lighting improvements outside, power washing the front of a building — “things that really catch your eye.”

“I think it’s great to be able to take some of the weight off our downtown businesses,” Shelnutt said. “I know 2024 was a rough year, and we’re able to help alleviate some of that.”

For information, visit the Facebook page for Downtown Russellville (Russellville Main Street), facebook.com/downtownrussellville, website, https://www.mainstreetalabama.org/russellville/, or send an emailto julie@russellvillemainstreet.org or kara@russellvillemainstreet.org , or call Kara Shelnutt at 256-277-7527.