Goals of the Program

The facade improvement program utilizes public funds to entice private investment by property owners interesting in rehabilitating and restoring downtown commercial structures, stressing their historical significance. Downtown Cedar Falls has over 100 years of construction currently in existence, though much of it has been inappropriately altered through the decades. The goal of the Community Main Street Façade Improvement Program really encompasses four points including:

1. To encourage historic preservation through restoration of downtown structures
2. To abate any continued deterioration of downtown commercial and/or residential structures
3. To augment the natural assets of downtown by restoring the uniqueness, character, and integrity of downtown structures to the period of their construction
4. To help in the economic recovery of downtown through increased sales in retail and commercial businesses, and increased valuation of property

As Community Main Street, Inc. and its Design Review Committee are interested I making the largest visual impact possible in the downtown area, we are certainly encouraging large restoration projects. However, just as important are small signage improvements, consideration of awing alternatives, as well as leasehold improvements that may be made by tenants. All of these have a significant effect on the visual presentation of downtown, and therefore, its image.

In order to encourage widespread participation, this program offers up to $1,000, dollar for dollar, in matching grants. These monies are provided through a Community Development Block Grant Program administered by the City of Cedar Falls. To qualify for assistance, an applicant must comply with the Community Main Street Design Guidelines and all improvements must be approved by the Community Main Street Design Review Committee prior to having work started.

The Community Main Street signage, as well as the Main Street Iowa Design Consultant, will work with property owners/tenants, free of charge, on recommendation for paint colors, need or appropriateness of awing treatment, color schemes, window treatments, advice on masonry repair, and signage.