City provides $2 million for property rehabilitation along Main Street
Mayor Malik D. Evans today announced that the City of Rochester is making $2 million available to support the rehabilitation and renovation of vacant properties on Main Street Downtown.
The Re:Main Grant Program will provide gap financing to property owners and developers for major investments in projects that will eliminate blight and attract new businesses and tenants to currently vacant or substantially vacant properties along Main Street.
“Main Street is the pride of any city center, and while we have seen major improvements to our Main Street in recent years, there’s still work to be done,” said Mayor Malik D. Evans. “The Re:Main Grant Program is an amazing financial opportunity for investors and property owners looking to convert deteriorated buildings, some which are historic properties, into ready-to-use commercial spaces and residential units. This program will help restore our sense of pride in our Main Street, and provide visitors with a more positive experience in our Downtown neighborhoods.”
Eligible buildings must be located along Main Street from West Broad Street to North Clinton Avenue, and projects must have a total development cost of at least $1 million to be considered. The maximum grant will not exceed 25% of the total project cost. Projects will be selected on a rolling basis until all funds are allocated.
Selection will be based on project feasibility and readiness, secured project financing, and the owner must be in receipt of a Certificate of Occupancy by October 1, 2029. Among other factors, priority will be given to projects that demonstrate compliance with Minority and Women-owned Business Enterprise (MWBE) goals and are in compliance with the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO).
For questions about the Re:Main program, please email Anne DaSilva Tella at Anne.DaSilvaTella@CityofRochester.Gov.