Objective:

The Downtown Development Authority aims to support the enhancement of Downtown Anniston by offering the B.I.G program, which provides financial assistance to improve building exteriors, focusing on aesthetics and historical integrity.

Grant Details:

• Grants from $500 to $5,000, reimbursing up to 50% of eligible project costs.
• Competitive; not all applications will secure funding.
• Priority for projects in specified target areas contributing to commercial growth.
• DDA holds final decision-making power.
• Program persists while funds last.
• Funding pool consists of $50,000.

Eligibility:

• Properties within Mainstreet Anniston District (refer to map).
• Owners or tenants (retail, restaurant, service, or office) can apply.
• Must be current on city/county taxes.
• Complete, legible application required.
• Higher priority to properties in targeted areas.
• DDA has full discretion over project approval.

Costs Covered:

• Façade improvements to building exteriors facing public areas.
• Reimbursement is 50% up to $5,000 for one façade.

Eligible Activities:

• Architectural design assistance (100% up to $1,000, if used and approved).
• Façade renderings.
• Signage (50% up to $1,000).
• Murals (50% up to $2,500).
• General exterior restoration, including removing and replacing façade materials, and repairing architectural features.

Eligible Restoration Activities:

• Exterior commercial cleaning, repairing, or painting exterior surfaces.
• Fixing or replacing doors, windows, and entrances.
• Working on railings, ironwork, cornices.
• Installing or repairing awnings, canopies.
• Restoring original architectural details.
• Updating integral signage and lighting.
• Improving disability access.
• Improvements must align with program goals and receive prior approval.

Ineligible Costs:

• Roofing (minor repairs related to façade improvements allowed).
• Non-compliant or disproportionate alterations or signage.
• HVAC Repairs
• Pre-approval of contracted or completed work.

Matching Funds:

Applicants provide a 50% match on approved façade improvement costs up to $2,500 per façade.

Reimbursements:

• Downtown Development Authority reimburses approved costs post-project completion and the Program Administrator’s acceptance of the close-out report.
• Discretionary exceptions are possible.
• Funds not provided for work started before written authorization.

Program Rights and Conditions:

• Mainstreet Anniston Director serves as the Secretary of the DDA and is considered the Program Administrator of the B.I.G Program
• DDA may end the program at any time.
• Grants are 50% matching and reimbursement-based.
• Specific grant terms outlined in the award agreement.
• Disbursement after project completion and document submission.
• Permits from the City of Anniston Building and Safety Division and review by the Anniston Historic Preservation Commission may be required.
• Grantees must permit promotional use of project information and photos by DDA and partners.