Manistique DDA Launches New Façade Improvement Grant Program to Revitalize Downtown

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Manistique, MI — The Manistique Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is pleased

to announce the launch of its new Façade Improvement Grant Program, a targeted

initiative designed to encourage private investment and enhance the visual appeal of

downtown Manistique.

The program offers reimbursement grants of up to 50 percent of eligible project costs,

with a maximum award of $2,000 per project, to support exterior improvements to

commercial and mixed-use buildings located within the Manistique DDA District.

The Façade Improvement Grant Program aims to:

• Improve the visual appearance of downtown buildings, streetscapes, and landscapes

• Reduce or eliminate blight and deteriorated conditions

• Strengthen and preserve the historic character of Manistique’s downtown

• Support long-term property value growth

• Encourage private investment aligned with the City of Manistique’s Master Plan

  and downtown revitalization efforts

To support the development and implementation of the program, the Manistique DDA

formed a Beautification Committee to assist with writing the grant guidelines and helping

administer the program. The committee represents a collaborative effort between local

leadership and community stakeholders and includes Corey Barr, Manistique City

Manager; Victoria George, Executive Director of Schoolcraft Tourism & Commerce

(STC); and DDA business and community representatives Rita Walsh, Ann MacGregor,

and Jeremy Flodin. Their collective work reflects a shared commitment to strengthening

downtown Manistique and enhancing the city’s overall appearance.

Eligible improvements under the program include storefront and façade rehabilitation,

masonry cleaning or repair, exterior painting (when combined with other improvements),

awnings and canopies, window and door replacements on street-facing façades,

exterior lighting, removal of outdated or inappropriate signage, restoration of

architectural features, and other visible enhancements that contribute to a more

attractive downtown environment.

The program is open to property owners and tenants of existing commercial or mixed-

use buildings within the DDA District. Tenants must provide written approval from the property owner, and all property taxes, utilities, and special assessments must be

current. Projects must receive written approval from the DDA before construction begins

to qualify for funding.

Applications will be reviewed by the DDA Beautification Committee and forwarded to the

DDA Board of Directors for final approval. Approved projects must be completed within

18 months of approval, after which reimbursement will be issued upon inspection and

submission of required documentation and paid receipts.

The application window opens March 1, with applications due by April 30 to be

considered in the next review cycle.

Business and property owners interested in enhancing their building’s exterior and

contributing to the continued revitalization of downtown Manistique are encouraged to

apply.

For program guidelines, application materials, or assistance, contact:

Manistique Downtown Development Authority

300 N. Maple Street

Manistique, MI 49854

(906) 341-2290

citymanager@cityofmanistique.net

The guidelines and application can also be found on the City Of Manistique’s website.:

https://www.cityofmanistique.org/