City of Fort Pierce continues Way to Grow Lincoln Park! Grant Program to Encourage Economic Development Along the Avenue D Corridor.
Fort Pierce, Fl (treasurecoast.com)- The City of Fort Pierce is pleased to announce the availability of grant funds to assist in the expenses for small business startup along the Avenue D corridor or relocating an already established business to the Avenue D corridor. Funding is also available to assist in the restoration, renovation, and repair of commercial facades in Lincoln Park along the Avenue D corridor.
The Small Business Startup or Relocate Grant Program aims to encourage private investment in the economic activity on the commercial corridor while bringing back some of the original character the historic Avenue D business district and providing a catalyst for others to open businesses in Lincoln Park.
Small business startup or relocation expenses covered can include, but are not limited to: rent differential, moving costs, initiation and hookup of utilities, equipment setup costs, interior remodeling, signage, and fees (permits, deposits, etc.).
The Commercial Façade Improvement Grant Program aims to encourage private investment in the visual improvement of the commercial storefronts while restoring the original character of historic buildings and providing a catalyst for others to improve the visual appearance of their privately-owned buildings.
Storefront façade improvements can include, but are not limited to: painting, stucco, masonry, awnings and canopies, affixed signage, exterior lighting, commercial storefront replacement, parking lots and accessibility improvements.
The eligible target area for the Way to Grow Lincoln Park! Grant Program is along Avenue D from 7th Street west through 25th Street. Potential applicants should thoroughly read the Grant Guidance and meet with Lincoln Park Revitalization Coordinator prior to application submission.
The City’s Lincoln Park Revitalization Coordinator will review all applications. The recommendations for grant awards will be presented to the City Manager’s office and approved by the Fort Pierce City Commission. Awards will be announced upon approval. Grant funding is limited and will be awarded on a ‘First Come – First Qualified – First Served’ basis until all funds are expended. There is approximately $50,000 remaining available for this grant opportunity.
To date, Small Business Startup grants have been awarded to Kingdom Kreations, All Points Protective Services, Cynthia’s Alterations, Black Girl Magic Beauty Supply, and A & K Groceries; Commercial Façade grants have been awarded to owners of 1004 Avenue D, and Cynthia’s Alterations. The program opened late April 2019.
Funding for this program is provided jointly by Allegany Franciscan Ministries’ Council for the Common Good and Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
The current Way to Grow Lincoln Park Grant Guidance and Application(s) can be accessed online at the city’s website:https://cityoffortpierce.com/503/Open-Grant-Opportunities
To request an application in English or Spanish, via email or mail, or to obtain more information about the Way to Grow Lincoln Park Small Business Startup or Relocate Grant opportunity, call 772-467-3168 or email cscott@cityoffortpierce.comPaper applications can be picked up at Fort Pierce City Hall, 100 North U.S. Hwy 1.
