In partnership with the Tryon Downtown Development Association (TDDA) and the Town of Tryon, the Tryon Small Town Main Street (STMS) Program announces its 2009 fa¸ade grant initiative. Designed to encourage the rehabilitation and preservation of the unique character of Tryon&squo;s central business district, the fa¸ade program offers matching grants of up to $2,000 for exterior renovations. The program is designed to help building and business owners make an immediate impact on their most visible marketing device, the commercial fa¸ade of their buildings.

Fa¸ade monies, provided through a NC Rural Center Economic Innovation Grant, will only cover exterior work for buildings in the central business district. Within this limitation, a wide range of projects may be included. For example, the removal of false fronts or awnings that detract from a building&squo;s historic character and/or architectural quality, safe fa¸ade cleaning procedures, historic reconstruction, approved awning purchase and installation, structural repairs (except the roof), lighting, signage, and other approved items could be eligible project components.

Proposals will be reviewed and approved by local representatives of the Tryon Small Town Main Street Design Sub-Committee, working in close consultation with state representatives of the North Carolina Small Town Main Street Program and the NC State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO). Further benefits to property owners may include federal and state tax credits.

To request a fa¸ade program information packet, please contact the secretary to the Tryon town manager at (828) 859-6655.