The Elk River Trail Foundation is pleased to announce the launch of its Façade Grant Program, a new initiative designed to help business owners and commercial property owners enhance the exterior appearance of their buildings and strengthen economic development in the Trail Towns of Clay and Clendenin and surrounding areas along the Elk River Trail and Elk River Water Trail. The application period will run from Feb. 2 through Apr. 15.
The program will offer up to $1,500 in architectural design services and up to $20,000 in construction services and funding for eligible façade improvements to commercial properties. The initiative focuses on projects that promote tourism, community pride, and downtown revitalization in Clay and Kanawha Counties.
Eligible improvements may include exterior painting, new signage, window and door replacements, awnings, lighting, accessibility upgrades, and other enhancements that contribute to the overall look and feel of the community. An architect and contractors retained by the Foundation will assist applicants in planning and executing projects that align with the historic and architectural character of each town.
“This is an amazing opportunity for local business owners in our small towns to invest in the appearance of their buildings and, in turn, the future of their communities,” said Madison Stone, Executive Director of the Elk River Trail Foundation. “By improving storefronts and building exteriors, we are strengthening our downtowns, supporting economic development, and creating welcoming spaces that attract visitors and encourage people to spend time—and money—in our Trail Towns.”
Applications, program guidelines, and frequently asked questions are available online at www.elkrivertrail.org. Paper applications and printed guidelines may also be picked up at the following locations:
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Clendenin Mayor’s Office 103 1st Street Clendenin, WV
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Clay County Courthouse – Town Clerk’s Office 246 Main Street Clay, WV 25043
Completed paper applications may be submitted in one of the following ways:
-Email: Scan and email the completed application and all required attachments to executivedirector@elkrivertrail.org
-Mail or Hand Delivery: Elk River Trail Foundation 107 Koontz Avenue, Suite 109 Clendenin, WV 25045
For additional information or questions about the Façade Mini Grant Program, please contact Madison Stone, Executive Director, at executivedirector@elkrivertrail.org or by phone at 304-619-6466.