City of Saco’s Facade Grant Helps Make a Great First Impression

SACO — It’s long been said “you only get one chance to make a first impression,” and for anyone running a business that first impression may very well decide whether or not a new customer walks through the door or walks on by.

The city of Saco’s Economic Development office knows what potential customers see from the street has the power to make or break a relationship. The department staff also recognize there are many demands on a business owner’s financial resources which can cause exterior enhancement projects to take a back seat. It is with these considerations in mind the city’s Economic Development Specialist Jessa Berna wants to spread the word to both the commercial building owners and business tenants within the Downtown TIF District of the city’s Downtown Facade Grant.

The list of qualifying improvements is broad, and includes such projects as installing or replacing signage and awnings, installing exterior lighting, repainting exterior trim, cleaning and repointing brickwork or even investing in new windows or doors. Grants are available up to a maximum $15,000 or 50% of the total project cost -whichever is less- and are paid as a reimbursement requiring 1:1 matching funds. Other grant conditions include, but are not limited to, applicant’s adherence to code requirements, zoning and land use approval if required, and guidance from Saco’s Historic Preservation Commission.

What makes Berna most excited about the Facade Grant opportunity is it’s a “win-win” for both the applicant and the entire downtown. “When our downtown businesses shine it brings more customers through their doors and through the downtown as a whole.” 

A shining example of a successful Facade Grant project can be seen in Peg Poulin’s building at 224 Main Street where her State Farm office is located. For Poulin, the process was relatively easy, although she admits by the nature of her business she has experience with reporting, record keeping, and had historical knowledge of the building dating back before her ownership which started in 1996.

 “We did our homework and made sure all our ducks were in a row. We had an architectural design mapped out, met with the Historic Preservation Committee, gathered estimates of costs, and ensured the contractor would be able to complete the project within the one year time limit,” said Poulin.

 She said she felt both supported and encouraged by the economic development office during the process, as Jessa made herself available to answer questions and reached out when more information was needed.

“The city even hung a banner in the window in promotion of the Facade Grant project partnership,” she said.

Well after the project was finished, she said random people off the street drop into her State Farm office to compliment the inviting storefront.

“It was a great opportunity that I would encourage others to take advantage of and I’d be happy to share my experience,” said Poulin.

For a full overview of the Facade Grant requirements and map of the eligible downtown TIF district visit sacomaine.org/facade or email JBerna@sacomaine.org with questions specific to your building or business.

Jennifer Day can be reached at jennervingday@gmail.com