ACTION REQUESTED:
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Communication from the City Manager with a Request to APPROVE a FAÇADE IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM Grant for UNION DEPOT LLC at 803-805 SW ADAMS ST, in an Amount Not to Exceed $5,000.00. (District 1)
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BACKGROUND: Union Depot LLC has requested a façade improvement grant for the property at 803-805 SW Adams. The overall façade improvement will be around $60,000 and will include new windows, doors, exterior painting, and tuck-pointing on two fronts (see proposed rendering). The proposed improvement in the façade application is for tuck-pointing only for a total cost of $13,785. They have requested a façade grant of $5,000.
Mr. Jon Walker, owner of Union Depot LLC, purchased the building in December 2015 with the intention of leasing the first floor for retail and the second floor for residential. Mr. Walker met with staff to ensure the project meets City regulations. The Façade Review Committee did not have any comments on the project.
Façade grants are provided on the condition that: a) funds are available, b) proposed improvements are eligible, c) the project is approved by City Council, d) improvements are completed according to an agreement, and e) receipts are verified for reimbursement.
Council has created a Façade Improvement Program to assist with the revitalization of commercial buildings and neighborhoods. Grants reimbursements for 50% of eligible project cost up to $5,000 per property are made available for façade improvements. The Program is intended to encourage owners and business tenants of existing properties to restore or renovate their buildings, in order to improve the area’s physical character and enhance the aesthetics of the commercial environment.
FINANCIAL IMPACT: If approved, the City will reimburse 50% of eligible project cost up to $5,000 and will utilize funds from the Façade Improvement CIP Project T14004.
NEIGHBORHOOD CONCERNS: No neighborhood groups were contacted regarding the project.
IMPACT IF APPROVED: Union Depot LLC will have the funds to make the façade improvements and visual enhance the building and create a lively dynamic in the Warehouse District.
IMPACT IF DENIED: The project may be delayed, reduced, or cancelled.
ALTERNATIVES: None
EEO CERTIFICATION NUMBER: Not applicable.
WHICH OF THE GOALS IDENTIFIED IN THE COUNCIL’S 2014 - 2029 STRATEGIC PLAN DOES THIS RECOMMENDATION ADVANCE?
1. Grow Peoria: Businesses, Jobs, and Population
2. Attractive Neighborhoods with Character: Safe and Livable
3. Vibrant Downtown: Riverfront/ Central Business District/ Warehouse District
WHICH CRITICAL SUCCESS FACTOR(S) FROM THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN DOES THIS RECOMMENDATION IMPLEMENT?
1. Grow employers and jobs.
2. Reinvest in neighborhoods.
DEPARTMENT: City Manager's Office