Chamber Members Receive Commercial Facade Grants

Congratulations to three Chamber members that are recipients of the second annual Commercial Facade Grants from the City of Fort Wayne. Mad Anthony Brewing Company, Jamison Meats, and Lutheran Life Villages, are three of the 13 recipients for this year's grants. Mayor Henry made the announcement Wednesday outside of Jamison Meats.

The program requires a minimum of a dollar-for-dollar match for exterior improvements to businesses in Economic Development Target Areas, with a total investment of $1.2 million. This year’s projects include landscaping, lighting, signage, windows and awnings. The City’s Community Development Division received 35 applications late last year for the 2010 program. The projects, with grants ranging from $2,300 to $40,000, will be done this year. Community Development staff are evaluating the selected projects using best practices for neighborhood-friendly aesthetics plus identifying any cost efficiencies to maximize the investment. The City will reimburse grant recipients after the work is finished.

Mad Anthony Brewing Co.'s (2002 Broadway) project will include siding, windows, doors, lighting, and awnings. Jamison Meats (3423 N. Anthony) project will include signage, awnings, doors, and the building built up by four feet. Lutheran Life Villages (6701 S. Anthony) project will include updated lighting.