On May 17th, at the Committee of the Whole meeting, Town Council approved $99,387.37 in Community Improvement Plan (CIP) grants for property improvements within the designated urban area. This year, the CIP Review Committee received sixteen (16) applications for projects that were eligible for grants. The Review Committee recommended funding allocations to fourteen (14) property improvement projects that have an estimated value of over $1,000,000.00. The grants range from $304.00 to $15,000.00 (See attached chart).
Now completing its 10th year, the CIP program has been able to facilitate more than $10 million in improvement projects. Eligible projects can include structural improvements, such as fire code upgrades, as well as accessibility improvements to façade, and signage projects aimed at improving the physical beauty of the buildings.
This year, boundaries were expanded to include Bay Street to all properties located at the Muskoka Wharf. The review committee emphasised creating connections and consistency between all vital areas of the Town.
“The expansion of the Community Improvement Program boundaries is another important step in providing programs and services that enhance the overall impressions of our community. With more owners having access to this incredible tool to make improvements to their properties, we truly can see all the positive efforts being made to make Gravenhurst an attractive location for visitors, residents, and new businesses,” said Mayor Paul Kelly.
Since 2013, this program has allowed local property and business owners to apply for financial assistance to improve the physical appearance and the overall vitality of their buildings. While building owners are approved for the grant, they do not receive any funding until the project is completed. Successful applicants are provided two building seasons to have work completed and inspected by the Town. Research has shown that the aesthetics of the urban area influence the shopping habits of prospective customers and visitors.
CIP grant applications are available at the Town of Gravenhurst offices and at www.gravenhurst.ca/cip.