Town of Greece Launches Dewey Avenue Commercial Façade Improvement Program

The Town of Greece announced the launch of the Dewey Avenue Commercial Façade Improvement Program, a new initiative designed to encourage private investment in commercial properties and enhance the appearance and economic vitality of the Dewey Avenue commercial corridor.

The program provides matching grants of up to $10,000 to eligible commercial property and business owners within the Stone Road portion of the Dewey Avenue Mixed Use Zoning District. Grants require 50% applicant match and are awarded via reimbursement, with funding available on a rolling basis until exhausted.

“Dewey Avenue is one of our most important and historic commercial corridors, and this program gives property and business owners a meaningful new tool to reinvest in their buildings,” said Supervisor McCann. “By helping cover the cost of façade improvements, we’re making it easier for businesses to put their best face forward and help drive continued revitalization along Dewey Avenue.”

Eligible improvements include:

• Exterior façade and storefront rehabilitation

• Window and door replacement or rehabilitation

• Exterior lighting improvements

• Signage improvements

• Permanent awnings and architectural features

• Other exterior building improvements that enhance the aesthetic appeal of the Dewey Avenue corridor

To be eligible, applicants must own or lease a qualifying commercial property within the designated program area, be current on property taxes, have no outstanding property or building code violations, and obtain all required permits and approvals. Applicants must submit at least two itemized contractor bids or cost estimates for the proposed work, and no work may begin until the applicant receives written authorization from the Town.

“For years, the Town of Greece has studied opportunities to revitalize the Dewey Avenue/Stone Road corridor. Now, our new Administration is acting. Through the Dewey Avenue Commercial Façade Improvement Program, local businesses can apply for matching grants to improve storefronts and building exteriors,” said Amorette Miller, Deputy Supervisor and 3^rd Ward Councilwoman. “I’m proud that we’ve moved this effort forward and that businesses are already preparing to apply. I look forward to the results for our local businesses, and the community pride these improvements will bring.”

“Small businesses are the backbone of this community. The Dewey Avenue corridor has long been one of Greece’s key commercial areas and one that’s overdue for some reinvestment and upkeep. This façade improvement program gives our local business and property owners a real tool to reinvest in their storefronts,” said David DiPonzio, 1^st Ward Councilman. “With up to $10,000 in matching HUD funding available for eligible improvements, I’m hopeful we’ll see meaningful, lasting upgrades take shape in the Stone Road area over the coming year, and I’d encourage every eligible owner to take a look at applying. I’m proud to stand behind the people working to bring this corridor back to where it should be.”

Property and business owners within the designated program area who are interested in applying can find the full Program Guidelines and Application Package on the Town of Greece website, under the Planning & Economic Development tab, or by contacting the office at 585-723-2356. The program is funded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program.