Elk River Trail Foundation Façade Grant Program

The Elk River Trail Foundation’s Façade Program is an ongoing grant initiative designed to support economic development and tourism by enhancing the exterior appearance of commercial buildings along the Elk River Trail and the Elk River Water Trail. Targeting Clay and Kanawha Counties in West Virginia, the program supports revitalization efforts in the trail-linked communities of Clay and Clendenin. Administered by the Elk River Trail Foundation, a nonprofit organization, the program assists eligible property owners and tenants with improvements that enhance the character and accessibility of local business districts. Participation in the program begins with a preliminary application outlining the proposed property and project concept. After initial review by the Foundation’s Façade Committee, selected applicants work with a designated architect retained by the Foundation to develop site-specific plans. The Foundation covers up to $1,500 in professional architectural services to help applicants refine their renovation scope. These design services ensure compatibility with the surrounding community’s scale and historic elements. Following completion of the planning phase, applicants may request construction funding through a formal grant application. Construction awards are available in amounts up to $20,000, depending on project scope and fund availability. Eligible improvements include signage, exterior painting, masonry repair, lighting, accessibility features, and the restoration or removal of architectural elements to better align with community standards. Residential improvements, interior renovations, roofing, paving, and structural changes are ineligible. Approved projects must adhere to all applicable permit and procurement requirements. Work must be performed by qualified contractors selected through a competitive bidding process overseen by the Foundation. Property owners are not permitted to perform the work themselves, and payment is issued directly to vendors following inspection and certification of completed work. The program architect coordinates with all stakeholders and ensures construction aligns with approved designs. Applicants must be commercial property owners or tenants with written consent from the owner. Properties must be located in Clay or Kanawha Counties and be in good standing with local, state, and federal tax and licensing authorities. Vacant commercial buildings may qualify if the applicant provides a credible plan for returning the structure to active use. The program excludes government-owned buildings, national franchises, and tax-exempt properties. Because the program is federally funded, all activities must comply with applicable environmental, design, and administrative requirements. Applications are accepted on an open submission basis and reviewed as received. Final awards are contingent on available funding and program capacity. Submission options include online forms, email, or delivery by mail. Additional consideration may be given to applicants who commit supplemental funds or propose improvements in priority zones near the trail corridor.

Submit early; prioritize tax/license compliance; proximity to Elk River Trail boosts chance of award.