The Commercial Sign and Design Assistance Program provides assistance for new signage or a design rendering for facade improvements. The program's purpose is to encourage economic development in the city's commercial areas.
Sign Improvement
The city offers a 1:1 match for new signs from a minimum of $1,000 (city's share) to a maximum of $5,000 (city's share). For example, if a sign costs a total of $5,000; the city would provide $2,500 for the sign and the applicant would provide $2,500 for a total cost of $5,000.
Signage must be consistent with the sign types allowed by the Zoning Code. Applicants will be required to convey a Sign Improvement Covenant to the city requiring the sign to be maintained in good condition for a 3-year term. Applications are reviewed on a first come, first serve basis and subject to staff approval. For more information on the program, please review the Program Guidelines (PDF) and Application Package (PDF).
Design Assistance
This program provides a maximum of $10,000 for design assistance to small businesses looking to update their building's facade. The city's investment in this service is meant to lead to businesses making improvements to their facade. The city will contract with architects to provide the service. The architect, city staff, and applicant will meet on-site to discuss the project. The applicant will be provided with a rendering to be used to obtain construction bids. The city is also working to identify partners that are able to provide financial assistance to applicants to construct the facade improvements.
Applications are reviewed on a first come, first serve basis and subject to staff approval. For more information on the program, please review the Program Guidelines (PDF).