Residential Property Improvement Grant
Purpose
Matching grant funding exterior building façade and landscape improvements to enhance the project’s quality, the overall curb appeal of the property, and ultimately, the property values in the residential areas.
Program Overview
In 2018, the City of Fort Myers adopted the 2018 Dr. MLK & VSSB Revitalization Plan, outlining goals and objectives for the designated redevelopment area. The Plan recommended establishing homeowner grant programs for façade, paint, and landscape improvements. (See page 6.4 August 2018 Dr. MLK & VSSB Plan Update.)
The Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) Residential Property Improvement Matching Grant Program aims to stimulate private investment in the CRA District by providing financial incentives for property owners to enhance the appearance and functionality of their existing buildings.
- Cure or prevent blighted and slum conditions that persist within the redevelopment area
- Increase property values
- Improve the curb appeal of residential areas within the redevelopment area.
Program Details
- Matching Grant: 50% reimbursement of eligible project costs, up to $25,000.
- Eligible Expenses: Design and implementation of improvements within the CRA District.
- Funding: Annually appropriated in the CRA budget, available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Eligibility: Projects must align with the goals of the CRA Master Plan.
Note: Funding is subject to availability and may be limited.
Expenditures Explained
Eligible Expenditures
The following expenses would be considered eligible for reimbursement under the Residential Improvement Matching Grant Program:
- Exterior of the building including paint color and architectural enhancements;
- Addition/replacement/repair of canvas awning or fixed canopies;
- Exterior landscaping, planters, irrigation, and screening;
- Exterior lighting;
- Removal, repair, or replacement of exterior building materials such as plywood, metal, glass, or stucco.
Ineligible Expenditures
The following expenditures would not be eligible for reimbursement under the Residential Improvement Matching Grant Program:
- Improvements or payments made before grant approval.
- Interior renovations, including fixtures, equipment, or inventory.
- Professional design services for interior improvements.
- Roof repairs.
- Refinancing existing debts.
- Removal of curb cuts.
- Non-fixed improvements.
- Sweat equity payments.
- General maintenance.
- Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (HVAC, security systems, piping, etc.)
- Utilities.
- Legal fees.
- Work performed that is inconsistent with Fort Myers Land Use and Development Regulations or inconsistent with the approved project plan.
- Improvements to the following are ineligible for funding: discouraged or prohibited uses, government-owned property, and non-conforming uses.
Get more info
For more on the Application Process, please reach out to the Fort Myers CRA Office before filling out an application.
