Richland County is reopening a program aimed at improving business facades along Broad River Road.
The Commercial Facade Improvement Program, created by the County’s Community Planning and Development Department, encourages businesses to upgrade the exterior appearance of their buildings, storefronts and signage. The program is designed to retain and attract businesses, strengthen the commercial corridor, increase traffic to existing businesses, restore economic vitality and enhance property values.
The program, which opens Monday, April 12, provides up to $15,000 per activity for exterior improvements to a commercial building or site. Eligible projects do not require a funding match – the County covers 100 percent of the cost.
“We have had success with the program in the past along Broad River Road, where we have been able to fund various improvements for local businesses, from new signage to helping repair roofs and parking lots,” said Brian Crooks, the County’s interim planning services manager.
“These different activities have helped to strengthen the local businesses by making their properties more attractive to their clientele but also to the overall community,” Crooks said. “We have been able to identify additional funding that we can utilize to make further improvements along the business corridor.”
For an application, email Richland County’s Neighborhood Improvement Program at NIP@richlandcountysc.gov or visit the Planning Department webpage. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until May 25 or when all program funding has been expended, whichever occurs first.
What’s Eligible, and What’s Required
Commercial businesses fronting Broad River Road from the 2200 block to the 3100 block are eligible to apply for the Commercial Facade Improvement Program. Applicants must be the owner or tenant of a commercial, retail or professional business or property with a current structure.
Applicants of multiple properties may receive funding for more than one business, but they must submit a separate application for each location. All applicants must be currently registered and licensed with the Richland County Business Service Center and be up to date on all County taxes.
The program allows for any combination of eligible facade improvements, including but not limited to:
- Exterior signs
- Exterior painting
- Parking lot resurfacing or repaving
- Outdoor lighting upgrades or installation
- Security features upgrades or installation
- General facade work
Richland County aims to open the program as funding allows, moving along the Broad River Road Corridor and throughout other areas.
Questions about the program should be directed to Planning Services staff at NIP@richlandcountysc.gov or 803-576-2190.