MAIN STREET PROGRAM RECEIVES CENTRE COUNTY CDBG FUNDS FOR FAÇADE PROGRAM

The Philipsburg Revitalization Corporation (PRC) has announced another round of Façade Improvement Program funding to benefit the Main Street Business District. The program is intended to encourage façade and signage improvements on Main Street in Philipsburg from Alder Street to Beaver Street through financial assistance to eligible owners or tenants. The program seeks to develop a more coherent, creative and attractive appearance in downtown Philipsburg.

The program, funded by Centre County Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds, will provide grants of up to $5,000 to eligible building and business owners. Owners will be required to match all funds provided.

The Program is designed to:
• Make positive, high-impact visual improvements to commercial building façades, providing an overall enhanced image for the Philipsburg downtown business district, thereby attracting local residents and visitors to shop, dine and do business in Philipsburg
• Encourage historic building façade restoration and preservation
• Increase market value and demand for commercial properties in the heart of the Philipsburg business district, resulting in economic growth and an increasing property tax base

Main Street Manager, Emily Gette-Doyle states “last year we awarded almost $30,000 in funds which translated into over $100,000 in private investment. The projects made a big impact downtown and we are excited to again provide this funding opportunity to local business and property owners, we view this program as one part of an overall revitalization strategy for the Philipsburg Business District.” Ms. Gette-Doyle also stated that she was “grateful to the Centre County Commissioners for funding this year’s program.”

With the immense interest the Main Street Program is also developing a low interest loan program in partnership with several local financial institutions in order to provide additional funding and encourage larger projects or to fund projects that may not be eligible under the current design guidelines.

The program requires a pre-application. Complete details, including design guidelines and applications are available upon request contact (814) 342-2260 or mainst@philipsburgpa.org .

The Philipsburg Revitalization Corporation (PRC) is a non-profit organization committed to encouraging the development and growth of a vibrant, diverse and healthy Downtown Philipsburg.