Council to weigh facade improvement proposal
Business owners in certain areas would be able to apply for grants up to $15,000
Windsor’s main streets could use a little sprucing up.
City administrators have pitched funding a business facade improvement program they believe can make a difference in both retaining business and creating more attractive walkable neighbourhoods.
The city’s planning, heritage and economic development committee has already given initial approval to the plan, with city council being asked at its next meeting on Jan. 8 to approve the final recommendation.
“This will provide an incentive for existing businesses on traditional main streets,” said Kevin Alexander, senior planner for the city who authored a report on the program going in front of council.
“Many of these streets have a heritage component. These are main streets in existing neighbourhoods and this will help promote walkability.”
If the plan gets approved, business owners within selected neighbourhoods will be able to apply for a matching grant from the city of up to $15,000 for storefront improvements.
The latest proposal is an extension of similar style programs that have already been utilized under community improvement plans for both the downtown and Sandwich Towne, which are not part of the latest plan.
The business improvement associations that would qualify include Wyandotte Towne Centre, Walkerville, Ford City Business District, Pillette Village, Olde Riverside Towne Centre, Erie Street and Ottawa Street.
Many of the streets in the business areas selected have already undergone extensive streetscaping renewal paid for by the city, Alexander said.
Funding will be considered under proposed improvements that fall under three classifications — beautification, restoration or replacement.
In regards to the type of renovations that could be done, Alexander said in some cases an original business storefront may have been bricked over or covered up in some fashion and an owner may want it restored to its original glory.
In other cases, it may involve full window or door replacements, new signage or awnings to enhance a building ’s appearance, which may be outdated.
Any application will need final approval from city council, Alexander said.
An initial reserve fund dating back to the 2015 budget for such a business renewal program has previously been set aside and includes more than $135,000.
“If we need more, we will go back to council and ask for additional funds,” Alexander said.
Should council sign off and approve the business facade incentive program, applications will likely be available starting some time in April, he said.
“It makes sense for us to make this available on main streets on a city-wide level,” Alexander said. “Generally the streets are in similar condition and situations. Some building facades are worse than others. The purpose of any community improvement plan is to revitalize these types of areas in the city.”