Building Improvement Grant

The Building Improvement Grant is administered by the City of Waynesboro Economic Development Office through the Economic Development Authority and is funded through an annual appropriation from City Council. The program is designed to enhance the visual appeal and economic vitality of key commercial areas by encouraging property owners and tenants to invest in exterior improvements. It supports a coordinated approach to design and development that promotes visually cohesive and attractive business districts. All proposed improvements must be reviewed and approved in advance by the Economic Development Authority, which maintains discretion over project eligibility and final funding decisions. This program operates as a single funding opportunity with two internal improvement tracks: façade improvements and landscaping improvements. Both tracks are structured as reimbursement grants covering up to 50 percent of total eligible project costs, subject to maximum caps. The façade improvement track provides funding up to 5000 dollars for exterior building enhancements such as painting, signage, lighting, masonry repair, windows, doors, and awnings. The landscaping improvement track provides funding up to 4000 dollars for improvements such as sidewalks, trees, irrigation systems, and other permanent landscaping features. While applicants may request funding for multiple improvements, the Authority may limit reimbursement to one façade or one landscaping project per fiscal year depending on available funding and demand. Eligible applicants include property owners or tenants with written permission from the property owner, provided the property is located within the designated Enterprise Sub Zone. This includes the Central Business District and Rockfish Gateway areas within the City of Waynesboro. The program is intended for properties that contribute to the commercial and visual character of these districts. All improvements must comply with local codes and regulations, and applicants are responsible for obtaining any required building or signage permits prior to beginning work. The application process follows an annual cycle. The grant program is typically announced in July, and applications must be submitted by early August. For the current cycle, all required application materials and attachments must be received by noon on August 7, 2026. Applicants must submit a complete application that includes project descriptions, cost estimates from contractors, design plans or renderings, and photographs of the existing building. Additional documentation such as material samples and property owner approvals may also be required. Separate applications must be submitted if applying for both façade and landscaping improvements. Applications are reviewed and scored based on several criteria, including the visual prominence of the building, the quality and appropriateness of the design, the historical or architectural significance of the structure, and the anticipated impact on the surrounding streetscape and economic development of the area. The Economic Development Authority evaluates each proposal for its contribution to long term district enhancement and may recommend modifications or deny projects that do not align with program goals. Award decisions are typically made within approximately two weeks after the application deadline. Selected applicants are notified and must complete their projects within 90 days of approval. Progress updates are required at 30 and 60 days following award notification. Failure to demonstrate progress or complete the project within the required timeframe may result in forfeiture of funding. Reimbursement is issued after project completion and submission of required documentation, including receipts and a formal reimbursement request. The Building Improvement Grant is a recurring annual program, subject to the availability of City funding each fiscal year. The Economic Development Authority administers the program and retains oversight throughout the project lifecycle, including approval of any changes during construction. The program emphasizes high quality design, compliance with local standards, and long term maintenance of improvements, ensuring that funded projects contribute meaningfully to the visual cohesion and economic development of Waynesboro commercial districts.

Focus on high quality design and strong visual impact. Demonstrate alignment with district aesthetics and long term durability. Provide complete documentation and exceed minimum standards where possible.