It's finally time in Greencastle. 

The grant application window for the Greencastle Main Street Downtown Development Grant opened on Aug. 10 and is available on a first come, first served basis, according to executive director Russel Harvey. 

The grants are designed to increase the aesthetic appeal and property values of the commercial lots within the Main Street designated area and adjacent commercial districts. 

"By working directly with businesses and property owners, the DDG stimulates investment through external improvements that preserve and care for the historical aspects of buildings," Harvey said. 

According to Harvey, improvements made to downtown facades must provide a uniform aesthetic while maintaining a historic appeal. 

"This helps to foster a unique, artistic style that separates Greencastle from other cities. Through the grant program, Main Street Greencastle creates a welcoming and cooperative environment for entrepreneurs, new businesses and business expansions. Partnering with building owners, we strengthen community and personal relationships in order to make a more vibrant downtown and city," Harvey said. 

The first round budget includes $95,000 for grants and $10,000 for design assistance and the proposed grant amounts are 75 percent reimbursable grant of the first $10,000 up to $7,500 and 50 percent reimbursable grant over $10,000 up to $42,500 for a total grant amount of $50,000.

The proposed grant areas are:

Year 1: Downtown Greencastle Main Street Program Area Design Assistance, which includes projects that require design work items such as sign design, awning color or storefront design and a $1,000 design assistance grant can be added to the total grant amount. However, all design work is subject to the evaluation of the selection committee for approval to keep in line with the overall downtown appeal. 

Fire Protection: The program will encourage Fire Protection upgrades and initiatives. 

Anyone wishing to apply for a grant or seek more information, is asked to contact Harvey at Hello@mainstreetgc.org. 

The grant will be awarded on a first come, first served basis and will be selected by a committee made up of members from Main Street Greencastle. 

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