The Coldwater Downtown Development Authority (DDA) recently awarded rebate checks to three projects from its Building Improvement Program fund. Donner Properties LLC received $1,500 towards exterior improvements at 44 North Hanchett Street which included updated siding and windows. Hope Café/The Chameleon received $2,346 towards signage and gooseneck lighting at its new and expanded location on West Chicago Street. And 49 West Chicago LLC received $5,000 towards replacing all storefront windows and framing.
In addition to the exterior improvements made by each recipient, one new housing unit was created at the property on Hanchett Street, and investments made at 49 W. Chicago Street represent new business in the downtown. Total investment generated by these three projects exceeds $32,000.
The DDA’s Building Improvement Program fund is designed to stimulate façade improvements of downtown buildings, support critical maintenance activities, and incentivize renovations. It includes a rebate program provided by the DDA, and a low-interest loan pool offered in partnership with Southern Michigan Bank & Trust, and Century Bank and Trust. The rebate program has disbursed over $68,000 to downtown projects since it was reinstated 2019, resulting in over $2.6 million of private investment. Funds have been used for new awnings, new signage, updated paint schemes, windows, tuck pointing, and other eligible expenses.
For information about the Building Improvement Programs, visit the DDA’s web page on coldwater.org or contact Audrey Tappenden at (517) 279-9531 x 6913 or atappenden@coldwater.org.
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