DOWAGIAC — In a small community, curb appeal can determine the ability of a business to not only survive in today’s marketplace, but to also thrive, according to the Greater Dowagiac Chamber of Commerce.

These last days of winter offer building owners an opportunity to evaluate the condition of their property to decide what maintenance or renovation is needed this construction season.

While many downtown buildings have been renovated, some are showing significant wear and tear, such as rotting window trim, peeling paint, bricks in need of tuck pointing and, in some cases, faded and worn awnings.

Despite this, Vickie Phillipson, chamber of commerce and Downtown Development Authority program director, said there is good news.

While the renovation of building facades is more than just spring cleaning, thanks to the city council, the DDA continues to offer financial assistance to downtown building owners who renovate their front facades. Funds appropriated by council from the city’s economic development budget, to fund the $10,000 annual Facade Incentive and Architectural Design Services Program, continue to be used to rejuvenate downtown storefronts.

The incentive is administered on a matching funds basis. Property owners are eligible to receive up to $2,000 for front facade renovation. Double storefronts may receive up to $4,000. The Design Review Committee will also consider a secondary side of a building, if it constitutes a major presence in the central business district.

“With several properties having recently changed ownership and others that are following suit, we anticipate several projects will move forward this construction season,” Phillipson said. “As a result, applications will be considered on a first-come, first-ready basis.”

Last year, the program awarded $6,000. Property owners Jacqueline Hale and Steve Roll made use of the facade program to renovate the exterior of Spa-toe-Pia and Art Found Gallery.

To receive a program application, contact the DDA and Chamber of Commerce at (269) 782-8212 or by email at VPhillipson@Dowagiac.org.