Muskegon Downtown Development Authority expands successful façade grant program for 2023-24

September 18, 2023

MUSKEGON, MI (Sept. 18, 2023) – After a successful first year of a downtown façade grant program, the Muskegon Downtown Development Authority has expanded the program to improve the exteriors of downtown businesses and commercial properties.

For the 2023-24 fiscal year, the DDA has increased the pool of grant funds available by 60 percent to $100,000. Individual businesses or commercial property owners within the downtown district can receive up to $15,000 on a first-come, first-serve basis. The number of grants will be limited by the budgeted amount. The grants are available on a one-to-one match. Thus, a $5,000 grant will support at least a $10,000 façade improvement.

The DDA goal is to upgrade the look and function of commercial buildings within the Muskegon DDA by encouraging tenant businesses or building owners to make exterior improvements. Such improvements will enhance the individual property’s value; and uplift the block in which the property is located and the overall district.

“DDA members were impressed with the interest in the grants and use of those funds last year,” said Contessa Alexander, city’s DDA manager. “We have seen concrete improvements that help businesses thrive and be sustainable.”

Last year’s grants included support of six businesses ranging from accessible picnic tables for customers and exterior painting to an accessible lift to get customers to a new second-story rooftop deck for a new restaurant. Accessibility upgrades are eligible in the grant program.

This is a reimbursement-oriented program to ensure that proposed work is done appropriately following city codes and ordinances and consistent with the character of the downtown district. Those unable this year to complete their exterior work within 12 months are able to request an extension.

Here is the DDA façade grant program details and application:

DDA-Facade-Grant-App-2023-24.pdf (muskegon-mi.gov)

For more information, contact:
Contessa Alexander, DDA manager
[email protected]
231-724-4141