Examples of Eligible Projects and Expenditures

Define the types of projects and expenditures that are eligible for funding. Ensure that eligible projects and expenditures align with the goals defined in the Program Objectives. Examples of eligible projects and expenditures may include, but are not limited to:

Eligible Project Examples

• Facade improvements: Restoration, renovation, or enhancement of building exteriors to improve aesthetics, preserve historical character, and enhance the pedestrian experience.
  • Examples: Painting, masonry repair, cornice restoration, window replacement, doors, exterior lighting.
• Signage improvements: Design and installation of business signage. Signage should adhere to local regulations. Electronic or animated signs, as well as internally lit plastic signs, are not recommended in a historic area.
  • Examples include blade signs, painted signs, wall-mounted signs, carved wood signs, halo-lit signs, window graphics, marquees, suspended signs, and more. 
• Building rehabilitation: Renovation or repair of existing buildings to address deterioration, improve functionality, and extend their lifespan.
  • Examples of general building rehabilitation include structural repairs, roof repair/replacement, ADA accessibility upgrades, and more.
  • Examples of historic rehabilitation may include brick repointing, painting wood, glass & window repair, restoring character-defining elements (such as exposing covered windows).   
• Code compliance upgrades: Modifications to existing buildings to meet current building codes, safety standards, and accessibility requirements.
  • Examples: Fire suppression systems, electrical upgrades, handicap accessibility improvements.
• Energy efficiency improvements: Projects that reduce energy consumption and promote sustainable building practices.
  • Examples include insulation upgrades, high-efficiency windows, solar panel installation, and high-efficiency HVAC systems.
• Expansion of usable space: Projects that increase the leasable or usable area of a building, particularly if it leads to job creation or increased business activity.
  • Examples: Reactivation of vacant or underutilized space, such as the reuse of upper floors or rear building additions.

Eligible Expenditure Examples

• Construction and renovation costs (materials and labor): Direct costs associated with the physical construction or renovation of a project.
• Equipment: Purchase or installation of equipment necessary for the project's completion or operation.
  • Examples include machinery, fixtures, technology such as computers, software, and communication systems.
• Supplies: Consumable items required for the project.
  • Examples: Paint supplies, equipment rental, etc.
• Utility upgrades: Costs associated with upgrading or extending utility services to a project site.
• Interior Improvements: Costs associated with enhancements to interior spaces.
  • Examples: Accessibility enhancements, lighting, grease traps, ovens, refrigerators.
• Architectural and Engineering fees: Costs for design, planning, and architectural & engineering services.
• Deconstruction and related activities: Costs associated with the safe and environmentally responsible demolition or removal of existing structures.