The City of Ellsworth is pleased to announce that properties in downtown Ellsworth have been awarded funding through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) for façade improvements. Projects range from door replacements and fresh paint to more extensive restorations that will remove modern alterations and reveal historic character.
The program received 18 applications totaling $588,016.04 in requested funding. With only $114,000 available, the review committee met three times in March to carefully evaluate submissions and determine award recipients. While many great projects were submitted, eight properties have been awarded full or partial funding.
This grant program, which provides a 3-to-1 match, helps property owners enhance the exterior appearance of their buildings, encouraging building restoration, historic preservation and economic vitality.
The Grand was awarded funding to replace deteriorating storefront doors. “Something as simple as doors on a storefront can turn a space into a place. Instead of obstacles, the doors on the Grand’s “bookends,” the Office and the Gallery, will become an invitation,” said Nick Turner, Executive Director of The Grand. “We are very grateful to the City for initiating and extending this grant to The Grand and several of its neighbors and friends.”
The next steps for recipients include working closely with city staff to submit their projects for review by the Maine Historic Preservation Commission, finalizing design and improvement plans, and beginning exterior façade work.
“These improvements are about more than just curb appeal,” said City Council Chair Michelle Beal, who also served on the grant review committee. “They’re about preserving the unique history of our downtown, supporting our local businesses, and promoting a vibrant Ellsworth that residents are proud to call home. This program is one of the ways we’re investing in Ellsworth’s economic future.”
Please direct inquiries to:
Maura Condon
Communications Director
mcondon@ellsworthmaine.gov
(207)667-2563 ext. 161
