Emerging Erie Fund Grant Program

The Façade Improvement Grant, offered by the Town of Chesapeake City, is designed to support exterior façade projects that restore and promote the integrity of buildings while enhancing the visual characteristics of the community. This program aligns with the broader mission of community development by fostering aesthetic improvements and preserving the architectural heritage of Chesapeake City. It is funded by the State of Maryland’s Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) Community Legacy Program, indicating a strategic focus on local community revitalization through targeted property enhancements. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are property owners within Chesapeake City who are looking to improve the exteriors of their properties. The program aims to achieve several impact goals, including improving the overall visual appeal of the community, preserving historical or architectural integrity of buildings, and stimulating local economic activity through renovation projects. By encouraging property owners to invest in their façades, the program seeks to create a more attractive and vibrant environment for residents and visitors alike. The grant prioritizes and focuses on a variety of exterior façade improvements. Eligible projects encompass fascia and soffit replacement/repair, door and window replacement/repair, porch and step replacement/repair, painting, masonry repair, and repointing of masonry façades. Additionally, the program supports the removal of historically inappropriate features and the installation of historically appropriate or compatible ones, emphasizing a commitment to maintaining the town's character. Expected outcomes include a visible improvement in the condition and appearance of participating properties, leading to an enhanced community aesthetic. Measurable results could include the number of façades improved, the total investment in property renovations, and anecdotal evidence of increased community pride or tourism. The foundation's strategic priorities, as indicated by the funding through DHCD's Community Legacy Program, are centered on supporting initiatives that build stronger communities through physical improvements and cultural preservation, reflecting a theory of change where targeted investments in infrastructure and aesthetics lead to broader community benefits and increased civic engagement.