We have an opportunity for YOU!

1. Decide exactly which improvements you would like to do to the outside of your commercial building.
2. Fill out the application online through DocuSign. 
3. Through the Warrenton Main Street program, the Hometown Warrenton, Inc. Board of Directors will judge the application.
4. Approved applicants will be notified within 6 weeks, and those selected recipients will receive a matching grant of up to $2500 to improve the specified façade. 50/50 Cash match is required. (Ex: You spend $500, HWI will grant $500 for a total project expense of $1000) Receipts for the work completed must be presented, and the match will be provided.
5. Major Projects must be started within 90 days and completed within 1 year.
6. Minor Project must be started within 30 days and completed within 90 days.
7. Reimbursement will be given AFTER project completion.

Eligible Actions (Examples)

• Painting: Refreshing exterior paint to enhance visual appeal.
• Masonry Repair: Restoring or repairing brick, stone, or other masonry elements.
• Lighting Fixtures: Installing new or replacing outdated lighting to improve aesthetics and safety.
• Awnings (New or Replacement): Adding or upgrading awnings to enhance the storefront’s look and functionality.
• Approved Signs: Installing signage that aligns with approved design guidelines.
• Replacement of Windows or Doors: Restoring or replacing windows or doors in line with historical features.
• Replacement of Architectural Details: Preserving or reinstating key architectural features that contribute to the building's character.

Ineligible Actions (Examples)

• Demolition of historically or architecturally significant buildings or features.
• General periodic maintenance that does not contribute to the building’s appearance or historical integrity.
• Unapproved Signs that do not meet the design standards of the district.
• Roof Repairs or Replacements, as they are not considered part of the visible façade improvement goals.

Façade Grant Criteria
Façade grant applications are assessed using a point system that evaluates several factors to determine eligibility and priority for funding. These factors include, but are not limited to:

• Main Street-facing Building: Preference is given to properties located along Main Street or in high-visibility areas.
• Historically Correct Restoration: The use of materials and processes that align with the building’s original design and historical context.
• Impact on the District/Public View: The potential of the project to improve the aesthetic appeal of the surrounding area and contribute to the downtown atmosphere.
• Available Budgeted Resources: Consideration of the funds available for the program in the current year.
• Overall Cost of the Project: How the project fits within the budget and its cost-effectiveness.
• Need of Applicant and Willingness to Implement Historic Features: Financial need and the applicant’s dedication to preserving the historical integrity of the property.

Façade Grant Funding
Hometown Warrenton, Inc.’s Façade Grant Program is a competitive initiative aimed at encouraging new and existing property owners to enhance the exterior appearance of buildings within the city limits. The program helps boost the aesthetic quality of downtown Warrenton and fosters economic growth by improving the district’s visual appeal. Funding is provided annually through the Warrenton Downtown Development Authority (DDA), with priority given to projects that contribute to the historic character of the area.

Necessary Documents
To facilitate the application process for the Façade Grant Program, applicants are required to submit key documents, including a project proposal, budget, and any relevant architectural designs. These documents help the review committee better understand the scope and impact of the proposed project. For assistance or to submit an application, contact Jeffrey D. Fowler at [email protected] or call 706.465.9604.
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If you have any questions or need additional guidance, feel free to reach out. We are here to help you through the process and support the revitalization of downtown Warrenton!

Previous Recipients
Showcased below are projected completed within the last five years.

Divine Designs on Main - Full Renovation

504-510 Main Street - Awnings and Glasswork

518 Main Street - Brick/Facade Improvements

725 Main Street - Facade Improvements

472 Main Street - Awning

725 Main Street - Signage

Children's Mural - Painting Facade

3 West Gibson Street - Mural Replacement

15 West Gibson Street - Facade Replacement

F.A.Q.'s

​What is a Façade? 

​The visible surface in architecture; the face of a building, especially the principal or front face showing its most prominent architectural features.

​Why are there funding limits? 

Hometown Warrenton, Inc. receives funding from the WDDA to allow us to administer grants. Each year only a certain amount of funding is allocated for grants, and when that funding has been used no more grants will be issued.

​How long do I have to complete the project once the grant has been approved? 

From the date of approval an applicant has 6 months to complete the project. If the grant applicant feels they will not complete the project in time, please contact Jeffrey Fowler to request an extension. You may contact him by phone at (706) 465-9604 or email at [email protected].

What resources do you have to help ensure Historic Restoration?

The Office of Downtown Development’s Design Studio has many different programs and services available for a small fee. If you as a grant applicant are interested please contact Jeffrey Fowler.

Other Resources:
Illustrated Guidelines for Rehabilitating Historic Buildings, The Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation
The Secretary of the Interior's Standards for the Treatment Of Historic Properties with Guidelines for Preserving, Rehabilitating, Restoring & Reconstructing Historic Buildings

Who decides what applications are approved or denied? 

The Board of Directors will review each applications at a Board Meeting. A list of Board Members is located at the Hometown Warrenton, Inc. page.

​Is there a place to download an application? 

Applications are available for download at the following link:

hometown_warrenton_inc._facade_grant_application_-_updated_september_2024.pdf
File Size:	470 kb
File Type:	pdf

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