12.10.09
Proposed Grant Could Help Downtown Businesses
By: Ana Jackson - www. nbc4i.com
COLUMBUS, Ohio —While many stores have become vacant shells along High Street in downtown Columbus, The Peanut Shoppe has survived for 31 years. But owner Pat Stone says it hasn’t been easy.

“We’ve seen a drop in our walk traffic of about two-thirds,“ said Stone.

Stone is looking forward to the proposed Facade Improvement Grant.

City leaders plan to allocate $100,000 to the grant. Property owners and tenants can apply for up to $5,000 to help make their storefronts more welcoming, by fixing things such as signage, awnings, lighting and by replacing windows and doors.

But there is a catch. For every dollar granted, an equal match has to be contributed by the recipient of the money.

City councilman Andrew Ginther explains that city leaders chose to allocate money towards fixing building facades because retail relies on captivating storefronts to attract customers and tenants want move-in-ready buildings.

“We don’t think that this is a silver bullet that this is going to fix everything in and of itself. But this is a great first step,“ said Ginther.

Stone plans on applying for a grant to repair the Mr. Peanut sign outside her shop so that he can shine brightly on High Street. She also hopes the grant attracts more neighbors.

“I’d love to see every storefront filled. I’d love to see the sidewalk packed at lunch time,“ said Stone.

City Council will vote on the proposed grant next Monday. If it’s approved, applicants will be considered right away. Money could be handed out as soon as next March.

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