The Hermiston Urban Renewal Agency (HURA) approved a grant worth up to $4,920 to the first applicant for a façade improvement program Monday night.
The applicant, John Ballard, plans to spend $12,300 to upgrade the aesthetics of his law office at 125 S.W. Third St. The façade grant review committee scores applicants on a scale of 1-10 in six categories such as whether or not the proposed project contributes to aesthetic enhancement, does it enhance the overall downtown appearance, will it enhance the value of the property, and are the improvements compatible with the overall downtown character. Ballard’s application scored a 39 out of a possible 60. An application meeting all of the review criteria would be eligible for a 50-percent match.
Projects scoring in the range of 48-60 receive the full 50-percent match; those scoring between 36-47 receive a 40-percent match; those scoring between 24-35 receive a 30-percent match; those scoring between 12-23 receive a 20-percent match; and those scoring up to 11 can receive a 10-percent match.
The total estimated cost of Ballard’s project is $12,300.
Those interested in applying for a façade improvement grant can find application materials at on the city of Hermiston’s website. Applications are being accepted throughout the year.
The HURA Façade Improvement Grant Program is intended to incentivize private investment, improve aesthetics, rehabilitate aging buildings, and encourage commercial development in Hermiston’s downtown. The HURA plans to spend up to $500,000 on façade improvement grants over the next 20 years, and set aside $50,000 for grants this year.
Façade grant applicants may receive matching funds of up to 50 percent of exterior improvement costs, up to a maximum grant of $10,000. Applications are scored through a matrix system which determines how well each project meets the intended goals of the urban renewal agency. Projects which most closely meet the goals will receive a larger grant.
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