What is a building façade?
A building façade is the storefront or exterior area of a building. It is the “face” of a building and often what passersby first see
What is a Façade Improvement Program?
A façade improvement program is an incentive program created to encourage property and business owners to improve their building storefronts. Exterior improvements to buildings in a commercial area can lead to revitalization of neglected or older commercial districts and help small businesses improve visibility and curb appeal.
Am I eligible for the Façade Improvement Grant Program?
Both commercial business and property owners may apply. Commercial property owners must own a building that has ground floor retail. Business owners who lease a space can apply with permission from the property owner. The Storefronts program is geared towards Medford small businesses. If you have questions regarding your eligibility for the Storefronts program, please contact the Office of Planning, Development, & Sustainability.
What building improvements are eligible?
Improvements to exterior painting, murals on the street facing portion of the building, signage, awnings, exterior lighting, window boxes, and window signage/treatments (up to 35% coverage) are eligible activities funded by the Storefronts program. In some cases, funding may be applied to minor repairs of the building façade.
What building improvements are ineligible?
Ineligible improvements include any new construction, interior renovations, costs associated with security systems, solar systems, or satellite dishes, purchase of property, decorative fencing, roof repairs, sidewalks, and door replacement and repair. Any Project improvements commenced prior to the receipt of a signed Notice to Proceed from the City will also be considered ineligible.
How much of a reimbursement can I apply for?
Applicants to the program may apply for 50% of project costs, up to $5,000. For example, if your project cost is $15,000 you will only be eligible for a reimbursement up to $5,000.
What if I am a property owner of a building with more than one ground floor storefront?
Award amounts to property owners applying for improvements to multiple storefronts in the same building will be determined on a case-by-case basis.
I am a business owner, but I lease my space. Can I apply?
Yes, business owners who lease a space can apply with permission from the property owner. Final design drawings will also need approval from the property owner.
How long do I need to maintain improvements funded by the Storefronts program?
Grantees must maintain façade improvements funded by the Storefronts program for a minimum of three years. If a grantee fails to meet this condition, the City of Medford may request immediate reimbursement of funds disbursed to the grantee.
I owe city taxes. Can I apply?
No, the project applicant or lessee must owe no outstanding property taxes, fees, judgments, or liens to the City of Medford.
Where can I find an application?
Application details are available at medfordma.org/storefronts.
What information am I required to submit as part of the application?
Required information includes applicant information, a description of proposed improvements, photos of the building façade and storefront(s), estimated project costs (under $5k, $5-10k, or over $10k), funding request amount, copy of deed, Certificate of Occupancy, current business certificate if a business owner, and a Massachusetts Certificate of Good Standing. An optional drawing or sketch of proposed improvements may also be submitted as part of the application.
Who is available to help me with my application when I have questions?
Please reach out to the Office of Planning, Development, & Sustainability if you have any questions or require assistance completing an application. Language translation services are also available on request.
How are applications being evaluated?
Applications will be evaluated according to the following criteria:
- Complete application
- Compliance with design guidelines, eligible activities, program objectives, and City of Medford codes;
- Improvement to the visual appeal of the building and appearance/attractiveness of the streetscape as a whole;
- Amount of personal investment in project and documentation of matching funds;
- Location in the City of Medford. It is a priority of the city to equitably distribute Storefronts grants to Medford’s various squares and commercial districts.
- Determination of need based on information provided by applicants.
Who is evaluating the applications?
Applications will be reviewed by a city staff review committee including representatives from the Building Department, Office of Planning, Development, & Sustainability, and the Mayor’s Office.
How can I learn more about the Façade Improvement Program and ask questions in person?
The Office of Planning, Development, & Sustainability can be reached at 781-393-2480 or yniwa@medford-ma.gov.
To ask questions in person, visit us at City Hall in Room 308!
Office of Planning, Development, & Sustainability
Medford City Hall, Rm. 308
85 George P. Hassett Drive
Medford, MA 02155
