BIDDEFORD — Beautification efforts in downtown Biddeford are in full swing, with new planters and plans for more new sidewalks. Biddeford will also sponsor a facade improvement program to provide funds for property owners and/or business owners to renovate their buildings.

Biddeford has operated a facade program off and on since 2006. Since then it has provided funds to dozens of business — 18 in the first year alone — to help them pay for building facelifts.

Previous programs were funded through Tax Increment Finance district funds — taxes resulting from new property values that are used for public or private projects.

The new Downtown Facade and Business Assistance Improvement Program will be funded through Community Development Block Grants, that come from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Nearly $50,000 will be used for the matching fund program that requires applicants to match dollar for dollar the amount they receive through the program. Approved projects can receive up to $15,000 to make exterior or interior improvements. Projects receiving the maximum grant would need to be valued at least at $30,000. Matching funds can come from loans, cash or documented sweat equity.

“The program is designed to create visual improvements or assist businesses in the downtown, MSRD-1 or MSRD 2, along Main Street or connecting side streets,” according to a description of the program by Economic Development Director Mathew Eddy.

Funds will be dispersed annually on a first-come, first-serve and on-going basis to eligible projects until all funds are expended. Buildings can receive up to one matching grant per 90-day period. Eligibility requirements include being located on Main Street or connected streets, being current on personal and real property taxes, completing the  project within one year, approval by building owner and proof of ownership and meeting federal requirements. Grant funds will be paid to the contractor.

Eligible projects must comply with code and design review requirements and a historic preservation review. Projects could include signs, awnings, restoration of historic windows or doors, painting or repointing bricks, ADA improvements and more. Interior improvements are eligible if they are part of a project including exterior upgrades. New building construction and routine maintenance are not eligible for grants.

— Associate Editor Dina Mendros can be contacted at 282-1535, ext. 324 or [email protected].