Front Door Refresh Façade Improvement Program

The Front Door Refresh Façade Improvement Program is administered by the East Baton Rouge Parish Redevelopment Authority, operating as Build East Baton Rouge. This initiative is funded through the JPMorgan Chase AdvancingCities Grant and aligns with the Reimagine Plank Road Master Plan, a broader strategy aimed at revitalizing key commercial corridors in Baton Rouge. The program focuses specifically on enhancing the visual and functional quality of storefronts along a defined segment of the Plank Road Corridor, particularly between North 22nd Street and Clayton Street. By concentrating improvements within this geographic cluster, the program seeks to create a visible and cohesive transformation that stimulates economic activity and encourages further investment. The primary objective of the program is to strengthen small businesses and commercial properties by improving exterior conditions that influence customer perception and accessibility. Funding is provided in the form of reimbursement grants of up to ten thousand dollars to support façade improvements. Eligible uses include storefront renovations, exterior painting, façade restoration, signage upgrades, awnings, landscaping enhancements, and accessibility improvements. These improvements are intended to increase curb appeal, attract new customers, and contribute to a safer and more inviting pedestrian environment. All funded activities must comply with program guidelines and receive approval prior to implementation. Eligibility is limited to small business owners and commercial property owners located within the designated Plank Road Corridor target area. Applicants must demonstrate readiness to undertake exterior improvements and must ensure that proposed projects align with corridor revitalization goals. Both business operators and property owners may apply, provided they meet location requirements and submit a complete application. The program emphasizes equitable investment, prioritizing historically disinvested areas and supporting inclusive economic development. The application process requires applicants to first confirm property eligibility and project alignment with program criteria. Applicants must then complete an intake form providing details about their business, property, and proposed improvements. Following submission, Build EBR evaluates applications based on factors such as project readiness, potential corridor impact, alignment with community priorities, and overall benefit to the surrounding area. Selected applicants collaborate with program staff to refine the project scope before undergoing review by a grant committee. Final approval is granted by the governing board, after which a formal grant agreement is executed. Funding is disbursed on a reimbursement basis after project completion and approval. Applicants are responsible for completing construction in accordance with agreed plans and must comply with any documentation or verification requirements prior to receiving funds. While no explicit matching requirement is stated, applicants should be prepared to cover upfront costs until reimbursement is issued. The program does not specify restrictions beyond the requirement that improvements be exterior-focused and aligned with approved uses. The application window for the current cycle opens on July 7, 2026 and closes on September 30, 2026. Applications are accepted only while funding remains available, indicating a limited funding pool. No recurring schedule is explicitly stated, though availability depends on continued funding. For assistance, applicants may contact Dexter Alexander, Real Estate Coordinator, via email. The program does not specify award notification timelines or performance periods, but completion and reimbursement occur following construction approval.

Ensure project readiness and clear alignment with corridor impact and community benefit; provide strong visual and practical improvement plan