To assist property owners along the 23rd Street Corridor Redevelopment Area, the City of Columbus has created the 23rd Street Neighborhood Beautification Grant Program.
The purpose of the program is to encourage and incentivize the enhancement and beautification of Area 6 located around the 23rd Street Corridor.
“We are hoping through this plan to encourage employment and economic development of the City as well as for the redevelopment of the 23rd Street Corridor Area,” said Columbus City Administrator Tara Vasicek.
Landowner may undertake a redevelopment project according to program guidelines. Possible projects include exterior refurbishment of an existing structure, façade improvements and landscaping installation. These improvements range from repairing or troubleshooting faulty construction design or workmanship; installing, restoring, replacing or repairing awnings, windows, doors, cladding and architectural features; or the addition of landscape elements including trees, flowers and plants, outdoor benches or seating areas and outdoor lighting.
The Community Development Agency will consider funding a project in a total amount up to 50% of the TIF eligible costs of the project, or up to $15,000 per project, whichever is less.
The application period for grants will run from January 1 to January 31 of each calendar year with available funds being limited to the amount of incremental ad valorem real property taxes received in the prior year and allocated towards the Neighborhood Beautification Program.
All applications will be reviewed by the Community Development Agency and awardees will be notified. All approved projects shall be completed within twelve (12) months of time after the award of the grant. Grant funds will be distributed to the owner once the project is completed and eligible costs are certified by the City.
For more information about this program contact Planning and Economic Development Coordinator Jean Van Iperen at 402-562-4273.