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Lewis County Launches Façade Improvement &
Streetscape Program
Published: August 18, 2021
at 01:45 p.m.
By: Press Release from Lewis County Office of
Planning and Community Development
Lewis County Launches Façade Improvement &
Streetscape Program
LEWIS COUNTY, NY
– Lewis County is excited to launch a new program to incentivize property
owners, business owners and municipalities with façade improvements and
streetscape projects in downtown areas across the county. The Façade &
Streetscape Improvement Program is an investment from the Lewis County
American Rescue Plan Act funds of $450,000 over a two-year period.
Lewis County’s
downtown districts and public spaces hold central importance for community
gatherings, special events, and the success of small businesses. The Façade
& Streetscape Improvement Program aims to revitalize the historic
character and attractiveness of villages and hamlets in Lewis County
through public and private investment. To encourage and advance
revitalization efforts, this program will provide 75/25 matching funds for
eligible improvements to mixed-use and commercial buildings and streetscape
enhancements in Lewis County’s villages and hamlets. Together, these
improvements will help business growth and retention, enhance tourism,
increase spending in the local economy, and reduce the number of blighted
and vacant properties.
“Lewis County
lost 2% of our population over the last decade. Now more than ever,
families have the freedom to choose where they live. By revitalizing in our
downtowns and focusing on placemaking, we are sending a message that Lewis
County is a community worth investing in,” said Lewis County Manager, Ryan
Piche.
Façade
improvement funds are available to property owners and businesses with
mixed-use and commercial buildings located in a downtown area of a hamlet
or village. Projects must align with local zoning regulations and design
standards. Façade improvements can include, but are not limited to,
upgrades to entryways, signage, windows, doors, paint, and exterior
lighting.
Streetscape
improvement funds are available to municipalities to improve walkability
and community aesthetics in a village or hamlet. Streetscape improvements
can include gateway and wayfinding signage, street furniture, landscaping,
and public art.
The Façade &
Streetscape Program is a competitive funding application. Applications for
Round One of funding for the Program will open on August 18, 2021. Applications
are due on November 5, 2021. Applications will be reviewed by a
committee of representatives from the Department of Planning &
Community Development, Naturally Lewis, County Manager, Lewis County
Historical Society, and the Board of Legislators. Award notifications will
be made on December 1, 2021.
To learn more
about the Lewis County Façade & Streetscape Improvement Program or to
apply, visit the Naturally Lewis website: www.naturallylewis.com/initiatives/facade-streetscape-improvement-program.
Lewis County
residents are invited to Like and Follow the Lewis County Planning
Department’s new Facebook page @planLC to receive
timely updates on County events, initiatives, and the work of the Lewis
County Legislature.
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