Knoxville City Manager Heather Ussery and Economic Development Director Glenn Lyons held an informational meeting for downtown business owners interested in the new façade program. The City of Knoxville has allocated $115,000 dollars for the program with $60,000 allocated for the first round of applications. The project is looking at the removal of exterior metal skins which are covering many original brick facades in downtown. The program is offering municipal grants by the city ranging from $7,500 to-12,500 for the removal of the metal skins; the amount is dependent upon the size of the façade. The program is also offering up to $5,000 for storefront repairs that include: replacement of doors and windows, replacement of the sign bar, and installation of awnings. The grants offered through this program are to prepare the buildings for more extensive reinvestment which could involve state-supported assistance. Lyons tells KNIA/KRLS News about the potential state funding.

“It’s a Community Development block grant or CDBG that’s set aside for downtown development projects.  The city would apply on behalf of the property owners if the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IDEA) approves it  and they would give us $500,000 the city would put in $250,000  so then that would be 75% of the dollars going to the business owners that participate.”

The application period has started, with applications due by 4:30 pm on May 31. Applications can be picked up at city hall at 305 South Third Street. For more information go to kniakrls.com and click on this story.