This program will provide the City of Kendallville an additional “tool” in their economic vitality toolbox that will help stimulate our local economy using an innovative funding mechanism to preserve downtown historic buildings. The city is eligible for implementation of downtown preservation projects and operational expenses up to $2 million through OCRA’s Community Development Block Grant program. (The community must put up $200,000, too.) The program also includes multiple capacity and leadership building opportunities through a partnership with Main Street America, Indiana Humanities, and Indiana Landmarks.
$2 million has been approved under the PreservINg Main Street grant to preserve, repair, restore, or rehabilitate permanent components of the facades/storefronts in downtown Kendallville. These funds are prioritized for big transformations that have a high impact.
Funds can be used for renovations and restorations that are deemed "appropriate" to preserving the historic integrity of downtown. This might include tuckpointing brick, replacing brick, window and door reconstructions or restorations, removing false facades, restoring original facades, paint, entryways, lighting, and more. In special instances, funding may be available to eliminate safety code (mechanical, electrical) issues as well.
Funds may not be used for work on the backs of buildings, roofs, or alley-facing facades. They may, however, be used on front and, for corner buildings that face a street, side facades.
Commercial properties located in the designated target area, also referred to as the Downtown TIF District, bordered by East Mitchell Street, Riley Street, North Oak Street, South State Street, West Rush Street, South Orchard Street (and a portion of Williams Street), to West Mitchell Street.
Yes! The City of Kendallville Redevelopment Commission (RDC) will continue to offer the 50/50 Facade Grant program to eligible properties. This means a proposed project that includes a new awning and room, as well as brick restoration and new windows, could be eligible to receive funding from both programs.
An application will be made available for property owners to apply for funds. This application will seek to learn details about the scope of the proposed work on a property. Once the application is complete, if eligible, the the applicant will enter into a memorandum of understanding to confirm intent before free consultation(s) with design professionals are arranged (if needed) to assist with the creation of design renderings, project plans, and projected costs.
It is possible there may be more projects submitted than funding available, in which case grant partners will review all applicatinos and use criteria related to the objective of the grant to choose which projects will be funded.
(These details are subject to change. Kendallville is a pilot community, so the process is a fluid one as we all learn and work through it together.)
Projects selected for funding will be put out for bid in an effort to obtain at least three quotes from licensed contractors. Property owners who apply are encouraged to ask their preferred contractors to bid. Projects will be awarded to the "lowest and best" bidder.
Generally speaking (schedules are subject to change):
- Contractors will be able to bid projects in Spring/Summer 2022
- Work will be completed beginning Summer 2022 and must be complete within two years
The City of Kendallville offers a Facade Grant program under which 50% of the costs of work on the exterior of a property in the eligible district may be reimbursed, including roof work, windows, brick work, paint, signage, awnings, and more.
The nature of being a Pilot Community is that we are pioneering this entire process. Many of the details we share here are subject to change. EHK is committed to providing transparency and clear communication throughout. We appreciate your participation, undestanding, and patience.
