Fort Wayne launches ‘Curb Appeal’ pilot
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowThe city of Fort Wayne is launching a pilot program it says is designed to support neighborhood revitalization. Curb Appeal will provide matching grants to property owners looking to repair or enhance the exterior of their homes.
Through the program, residents can apply for funding either as a single residence or in combination with a neighboring property. The applicants will be required to provide a minimum of 20% in match funding.
The city said Monday the program is open to owners of residential properties within eligible neighborhoods, which were selected because “they recently or are actively involved in developing a neighborhood plan in partnership with the Community Development Division and the Neighborhood Planning and Activation Workgroup.”
The projects that would receive funding are required to be visible from the public sidewalk and/or street right of way. Projects could include tree and/or shrub removal, exterior washing or painting of the primary building, and removal or installation of fencing, among others.
“Neighborhoods are the backbone of our community,” Mayor Tom Henry said in a news release. “It’s critical that we continue to find new ways to make a positive difference to ensure our neighborhoods remain strong and vibrant.”
Eligible single residence projects could receive up to $2,500, and neighboring property projects could receive up to $4,000.
The city said the goal of the program is to improve the value of housing, assist homeowners with projects that they may not have otherwise undertaken, encourage further investment, and promote safe housing.
You can find more information on the Curb Appeal program by clicking here.