FOLEY – Foley officials are updating a successful program that has helped revitalize downtown buildings, making it easier for property owners and merchants to participate.

The Foley Façade Improvement Incentive Grant Program provides funding to enhance the exterior appearance of buildings and businesses within Foley’s Local and National Historic Districts and the Foley Main Street District.

The Foley City Council recently approved updates to the program to clarify eligible areas and simplify the application and reimbursement process, said Miriam Boone, Foley planning director.

“We are modifying this from the Main Street boundary to the Foley Downtown Overlay District,” Boone said. “It will include the Historic District, National Register District and the Foley Downtown Overlay District. We also worked with the Finance Department to streamline the reimbursement process.”

Through the program, downtown commercial property owners and business operators can apply for reimbursement for exterior improvements such as painting, awnings, signage, and other façade upgrades. Applicants may receive up to $5,000, depending on the size of the project.

Mayor Ralph Hellmich said the grant program has played an important role in the city’s ongoing downtown revitalization efforts.

“This has been very successful in helping upgrade our downtown,” Hellmich said. “It’s watched closely by both finance and community development, and it’s been a real asset — another piece of the puzzle we’ve used to improve our downtown.”

Councilman Charles Ebert III noted that the program operates on a reimbursement basis to ensure accountability and investment from participants.

“You have to spend the money and complete the work first,” Ebert said. “Then it’s inspected and approved before any reimbursement is made.”

For more information about the Façade Improvement Incentive Grant Program, contact the City of Foley, Foley Main Street or visit the city’s website.