Owners of Sundre businesses along the Highway 22 corridor will have the opportunity to apply for funding next month to enhance the fronts of their stores.
The Town of Sundre Highway Corridor Storefront Improvement Program will assist businesses with repainting, replacing windows and creating signage.
It will provide up to 50 per cent, to a maximum of $2,500, for a commercial property and to a maximum of $5,000 for a corner lot commercial property, as well as a commercial building with four or more storefronts.
Business owners will also have the option to install exterior lighting, outdoor planters, canopies and awnings to the fronts of their stores.
During the council meeting on Dec. 16, council approved the program as presented and directed town staff to administer the program starting in January.
Council also approved architectural guidelines for the program. These include incorporating natural materials such as wood, stone and stucco, and using complementary and heritage colours.
The intent of the program is for businesses to create a cohesive and updated look for the community.
ìIt is anticipated that businesses will experience an increase in foot traffic, that drivers along the corridor will want to slow down and stop within the community and that it will drive a greater sense of pride within the business community,î said Kim Galloway, the town's economic development officer, in a report to council.
Council approved $10,000 for the program in the 2014 budget, during budget deliberations on Nov. 23.
New construction, national franchises, government buildings, residences, churches or other religious institutions are not eligible for the program.
Improvements such as building repairs, roof repairs, interior plumbing and security bars are not included in the program.
Business owners can apply for the program from Jan. 7 to May 30, unless the funding available has reached capacity before May 30.
The number of projects awarded will be determined by the amount of funding available, on a first-come, first-served basis.
