Today, in conjunction with the Little Falls Urban Renewal Agency, the City is issuing a Call for Applications for the Downtown Improvement Grant Fund, one of the approved projects to be funded under the Round 5 Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI).  The Fund, using $600,000 in DRI funding provided by NYS Homes and Community Renewal, will spark the renovation of up to 10 downtown commercial and mixed-use buildings within the DRI Target Area. 

Priority for assistance will be given to highly visible buildings along the East and West Main Street corridors, and projects that preserve historic structures, renovate vacant commercial spaces, and upgrade buildings to provide space for new and existing businesses.  The City will also consider projects that redevelop vacant upper floors to create new apartments and stabilize buildings that otherwise could be lost due to continued neglect and deterioration. 

Applications must be submitted by the current property owner, and the City’s DRI funding will cover 80% of the total project costs, including any necessary architectural design and environmental review expenses associated with each project.  Owners approved for a Downtown Improvement Grant will also be required to front the project costs before receiving the DRI Grant funds as reimbursement after all renovation work is completed.  The Urban Renewal Agency will serve as the local administrator of the Downtown Improvement Grant Fund, with Applications processed on a first-come-first-serve basis. 

“We have worked hard to organize the various projects approved for DRI funding, and this Call for Applications represents a big step for the City to transform our Downtown,” stated Mayor Deborah Kaufman.  “This program, while a small part of the overall $10 million DRI, will make a lasting impact on the face of our business district and the proud buildings and storefronts that define the center of our community.” 

Application Packets for the Downtown Improvement Grant Fund are available through the City of Little Falls website at www.thisislittlefalls.com/services or by contacting the Urban Renewal Agency at mfeane@cityoflittlefalls.net.  City officials and a consultant will be available to assist interested property owners with project ideas and the Application submission.