PRESS RELEASE: ELK RAPIDS DDA AWARDS FACADE GRANTS TO DOWNTOWN BUSINESSES

Elk Rapids Downtown Development Authority (DDA) awarded 6 facade grants at the October DDA meeting for the 2023 Facade award cycle totaling $22,430 to Foundry Craft & Grillery, GetADesign, Haystacks, Stuff & Such, Swim to You, and Traverse Bay Farms. Each business committed funds to match or exceed the DDA award, totaling $45,860 for façade improvements in the downtown area.

The facade improvements range from replacing windows/doors, addressing safety issues, adding signage, repairing masonry, replacing fabric awnings in keeping with the Village architectural look and character. The improvements are funded to encourage businesses to make lasting improvements to the business façade.

“The DDA is pleased to partner with our businesses to encourage private investment through the rehabilitation and improvement of façades within the DDA district, with a focus on supporting historic preservation practices,” explained DDA Chair Barbara Matthews. “By improving the appearance of the building façades, the program serves to support the economic viability of the DDA District. The DDA is excited to partner with businesses throughout the district to improve placemaking efforts and spur economic development opportunities in the Village.”

The DDA plans to offer a Spring funding cycle for Elk Rapids’ businesses who are interested in making facade improvements in the DDA District.