Franklin Façade Improvement Program
About the Program
The City of Franklin Façade Improvement Program helps property and business owners improve the appearance of their buildings while strengthening the character of our commercial districts.
Through this program, eligible applicants may receive matching grant funds to upgrade exterior building façades in designated areas of the city.
Improving building façades helps support local businesses, attract visitors, and enhance the overall look and vitality of Franklin.
For a list of Frequently Asked Questions, click here.
Program Funding
The Franklin Façade Improvement Program is funded through $50,000 provided by the Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development (DCED).
Eligible applicants may receive:
- 50% reimbursement of project costs
- Up to $5,000 per project
Reimbursement is provided after the project is completed and proof of payment is submitted.
Important notes:
- The total project cost may not exceed $23,000.
- Work completed or materials purchased before approval are not eligible.
- Projects must be pre-approved by the program Review Committee.
To review complete guidelines, click here.
Eligible Project Area
The program is available to properties located within the following areas:
- Liberty Street between 8th Street and 15th Street
- 13th Street between Railroad Street and Franklin Avenue
- West Park Street between Otter Street and Liberty Street
- Elk Street between 14th Street and West Park Street
Buildings adjacent to these streets may also qualify if the project is visible from the designated area.
Eligibility questions are referred to DCED by City staff.
To see a map of the Designated Project Area, click here.
Review Committee
Applications are reviewed by a committee that meets:
Third Tuesday of each month
10:00 AM
Council Chambers – Franklin City Hall
Projects must receive committee approval before work begins.
Required Application Materials
Applicants must submit a completed application along with the following documents:
-
Three (3) contractor quotes using the program Bid Form
- The project must be awarded to the lowest bidding contractor
- Photos of the current building façade
- Mock-up or rendering of the proposed improvements
- Copy of the property deed showing the legal owner
-
If the applicant is a tenant:
- Copy of lease
- Signed permission letter from the property owner
-
Proof that all state and local taxes are current
- Paid tax receipts and/or canceled checks
- Property insurance declaration page
The following documents are available for download:
- Application
- Non-Discrimination / Sexual Harassment Clause
- Contractor Quote Sheet
- Property Owner Permission Letter (If you are a business who rents/leases space)
Applications and all accompanying documentation should be submitted to:
Anthony “T.J.” Parks, Grants Coordinator
C/O Community Development
430-13th Street
Franklin, PA 16323
814-437-1922 x 1126
After Your Application Is Approved
Once approved, applicants must complete the following steps before beginning work:
- Sign a Letter of Commitment confirming the required 50% match
- Obtain necessary building permits from the Code Enforcement Office
-
If the property is located in the Historic District:
- Obtain approval from the Historic & Architectural Review Board (HARB)
- Receive a Certificate of Appropriateness from the City Manager’s Office
- Provide the Grant Coordinator with the contractor’s Certificate of Insurance
- Begin the project within 30 days
Reimbursement Requirements
After the project is completed, the following documentation must be submitted for reimbursement:
- Paid receipts or invoices for all eligible work
- Copies of associated canceled checks
- Color photos of the completed project
Once documentation is received:
- The Grant Coordinator will submit the payment request to DCED
- Reimbursement will be issued within approximately 60 days
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the requirements for grant eligibility?
· The building must be located within, or immediately adjacent to the Designated Area. The project must be visible from the designated streets. Any questionable aspects of eligibility will be determined at the sole discretion of DCED staff;
· The building must be without significant structural , mechanical, or electrical defects, and must not have any significant code violations;
· The building owner must be current on all City, State and County taxes;
· The building owner must contact the City’s Code & Zoning Office to receive any required permits;
· The total project cost cannot exceed $23,000.
It is always a good idea to discuss your project with the Grant Coordinator prior to submitting an application to ensure the project meets eligibility requirements.
How much Assistance is available?
Each eligible project can receive up to $5,000 of grant funds.
When will I receive any awarded funds?
Once the project is complete and the applicant has submitted the required documentation to the Grant Coordinator, including proof of payment in full, the Grant Coordinator will immediately submit a payment request to DCED. DCED will then remit a check within 30 days.
Can I submit recently completed projects for reimbursement?
No. Any costs incurred (materials purchased / work completed) prior to the grant being awarded and the grant agreement being signed are not eligible for reimbursement.
Who completes the review of my application?
The Review Committee is comprised of a Grants Coordinator, the City’s Code Enforcement Officer, and one (1) member of the City of Franklin Historic and Architectural Review Board (HARB). This committee will ensure that the appropriate information has been submitted, the proposed project meets all code and zoning requirements, and that sufficient documentation for HARB (if necessary) has been received.
What project costs are eligible for the grant?
• Awnings & Canopies (up to $5,000);
• Signage (up to $2,500);
• Windows (up to $5,000);
• Doors (up to $5,000);
• Exterior Cleaning/Painting (up to $5,000);
• Exterior Restoration and Architectural Elements (up to $5,000);
• Exterior Lighting (up to $5,000);
• Design Assistance (up to $2,500).
Am I eligible for the program if I lease the property?
Yes. Leased properties are eligible for the program; however, the property owner(s) must complete a letter of authorization which must be submitted with the application.
May I submit multiple applications if I own more than one (1) property?
Yes, an application may be submitted for each property; however, only one application may be submitted for each storefront.
Are non-profit businesses eligible?
Yes, non-profit businesses are eligible for façade improvement funds.
How long do I have to complete my project?
All work must be completed within 120 days from the execution of the Letter of Commitment; otherwise the grant may be forfeited. Applicants may request an extension up to 90 days by submitting a written request and Change Order form.
Who should I contact if I have additional questions?
For questions regarding the Franklin Façade Grant Program Guidelines and Applications please contact the City of Franklin Grants Coordinator:
Anthony “T.J.” Parks, Grants Coordinator
(814) 437-1922 x1126