OEDC Votes to Proceed With Facade Program

After more than a year of planning and discussion, the Olney Economic Development Corporation officially moved forward July 8 with a downtown façade improvement program designed to help property owners restore and modernize Main Street storefronts.

The board agreed to begin contacting building owners on the first two blocks of downtown and invite them to participate in the matching grant program, which will reimburse up to $5,000 per storefront, or as much as $10,000 for double storefronts, after approved improvements are completed.

Executive Director Tom Parker said concentrating the initial funding within a limited area would produce the greatest visual impact.

“I think that’s the way to do it so you get the best bang for your buck all in one spot,” Mr. Parker told the board.

The corporation has budgeted $50,000 for the program. Property owners will submit estimates for approval before beginning work, then receive reimbursement after the project is completed.

Board member Tammy Montgomery said downtown revitalization has been one of the corporation’s priorities this year and encouraged the board to begin contacting business owners immediately.

“We start it this month and get it going,” Mr. Parker replied.

The program will follow architectural guidelines previously developed by Grossman Design Build to create a consistent appearance along Main Street. The guidelines encourage historically appropriate materials, colors and architectural details while discouraging modern features that clash with downtown’s traditional character.

Mr. Parker said the city remains several years away from its planned downtown sidewalk and streetscape improvements, making this an appropriate time to begin façade renovations rather than waiting for public infrastructure work to begin.

The OEDC also intends to improve the appearance of buildings it owns, including the former Hamilton Hotel and the corporation’s downtown office building.

Mr. Parker said the hotel will likely receive a thorough cleaning, including pressure washing, removal of deteriorated equipment and general exterior cleanup.

The OEDC office building presents a larger challenge. While renovating a restroom recently, workers discovered portions of the upper façade are constructed of plywood covered with painted cedar rather than brick.

“There isn’t much there,” Mr. Parker said. “We can’t just screw into plywood.”

He said he plans to meet later this month with an Austin firm to discuss installing structural steel façade panels that could provide a durable new exterior while supporting signage and lighting. Because of the project’s scope, Mr. Parker said those improvements will likely be considered during next year’s budgeting process.

The board directed Mr. Parker to begin contacting downtown property owners and launch the program immediately.