MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
The City of Hutchinson has opened applications for its Commercial Façade Improvement Program, offering matching grants to help south Hutchinson business and property owners upgrade building exteriors along arterial streets south of and including 11th Avenue.
The program is designed to encourage reinvestment in commercial properties, reduce blight, and improve the overall appearance and economic vitality of the area. Through the program, the City will reimburse up to 50 percent of eligible project costs, with grants capped at $10,000 per property.
Eligible improvements include exterior paint, signage, windows, doors, awnings, roof and wall repairs, and exterior lighting. Projects must involve commercial properties located on arterial streets and be current on property taxes at the time of application and project completion. Each property is limited to one grant.
The minimum grant award is $1,000, meaning total project costs must exceed $2,000. For projects exceeding $5,000, applicants must obtain at least two cost quotes, and city approval is required before work begins.
Applications will be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis until available funding is exhausted. In evaluating projects, city staff and the Planning Commission will consider factors such as code compliance, current condition of the property, project feasibility, and consistency with adopted city plans.
Applicants are encouraged to meet with Community Development staff prior to submitting an application to review project concepts and eligibility requirements. Completed applications must be submitted to the Community Development Department. City staff will review submissions for completeness and may conduct site visits. In some cases, site plans may require Planning Commission approval, which also makes final funding decisions.
Projects may not begin until written approval is issued by the City. Any costs incurred prior to approval are not eligible for reimbursement, and projects that are substantially complete or finished at the time of application will not qualify.
A limited exception may be considered for projects that were planned or underway before the application release, provided strict conditions are met, including written notice of intent submitted before construction began and completion occurring after Jan. 1, 2026. Approval of such exceptions is at the City’s sole discretion.
Grant-funded improvements must be maintained in good condition for at least five years. All projects must comply with city codes and applicable local, state, and federal regulations. In-kind labor provided by applicants is not eligible for reimbursement, and any changes to approved project scope or materials must receive prior city approval.
Because funding is limited, interested business and property owners are encouraged to apply early.