Anniston, AL – Main Street Anniston and the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) are thrilled to announce a new partnership to establish the Building Improvement Grant program. This initiative aims to support for-profit businesses, nonprofit corporations, and private citizens within the Downtown Anniston Historic District and West 15th Historic District. The program, funded by the DDA—an independent entity separate from the City of Anniston’s Municipal Government—offers up to $5,000 in reimbursement funds for a variety of eligible projects.
The grant program covers several activities, ensuring a broad range of improvements can be made. Eligible activities include architectural design assistance, which is fully reimbursable up to $1,000 upon approval. Additional supported projects include façade renderings, signage with 50% reimbursement up to $1,000, and murals with 50% reimbursement up to $2,500. General exterior restoration projects, such as removing and replacing façade materials and repairing architectural features, are also eligible for funding.
In addition to these activities, the grant supports various restoration efforts aimed at enhancing the exterior of commercial properties. These include cleaning, repairing, or painting exterior surfaces, fixing or replacing doors, windows, and entrances, and working on railings, ironwork, and cornices. Installing or repairing awnings and canopies, restoring original architectural details, updating signage and lighting, and improving disability access are also covered under the program.
Karla Eden, the Main Street Director, emphasized the program’s potential to rejuvenate and preserve the historic charm of Anniston’s downtown areas. “This grant program is a fantastic opportunity for our community to enhance the beauty and structural integrity of our historic districts,” Eden stated.
For those interested in applying or seeking more information, Karla Eden can be contacted at 256-371-3711 or via email at [email protected]. Full guidelines and application details can be found at Building Improvement Grant Program.
