Ironwood launches local facade program

IRONWOOD — The city of Ironwood is launching its own facade improvement program.

The city plans to spend $2,500 matching facade improvements to four downtown buildings.

The $625 per building will be a one-to-one match from the city, according to Ironwood Community Development Director Michael Brown.

He said the application period is now open.

In the past, facade grants were awarded through the Michigan State Housing and Development Authority, and many building owners throughout the city took advantage of the funding, sprucing up the buildings.

Brown said the Downtown Ironwood Development Authority supports the program and it’s an off-shoot of the new city comprehensive plan.

“The facade program is structured to provide downtown commercial buildings improvements that create a high impact visual and minimize deterioration. This program is based on the premise that the exterior improvements will stimulate additional private investment in the buildings and surrounding area, and attract additional customers, thereby resulting in additional economic opportunities,” Brown said.

The property owner must complete the project and submit invoices and pass inspection by city building inspector Dennis Hewitt to receive the $625 reimbursement.

All work must be completed by June 26.

For specific information on what types of improvements will be funded, visit cityofironwood.org/Business/Business%20Programs/Facade%20Improvement%20Program.html.

Brown, Hewitt, the DIDA chair and a member of the Ironwood Historical Society will review and select the four projects.

Applications will be scored based on visual impact of a project, as well as the cost ratio of building owner contribution to the grant received, with the greater owner match, the better it will score, Brown said.