Six-month review: Buena Park’s Commercial Facade Improvement Program has early wins but slow uptake

Buena Park staff reported progress and challenges in the city’s Commercial Facade Improvement Program during a six-month review at a study session. Director Matt Folkes said the program, launched after council direction, provides one-time grants covering up to 75% of project costs with a $95,000 cap per project and that six proposals have been received since solicitation began in September 2024.

Folkes told the council two applicants — Travelodge and Classic Auto Body and Repair — have progressed into preliminary design and are likely to move most quickly. He said the program is intended for exterior, street-visible improvements such as façade remodels, landscaping, signage and parking-lot upgrades. Folkes reported that while participation has been slower than hoped, spending is roughly halfway through the allocated $1 million after six months because applicants are maximizing the city contribution.

Council members asked whether businesses affected by vandalism or burglaries could qualify. Folkes said insurance typically covers replacement of damaged storefronts and cautioned against a “double dip” where city funds would reimburse what insurance already covers. He suggested that projects that go beyond insurance recovery — for example, to reconfigure storefronts or add crime-prevention features under CPTED (crime prevention through environmental design) — could be eligible.

The presentation closed with staff recommendations to boost participation through targeted outreach, direct mailings, paid advertising and partnership with the Chamber of Commerce. No binding policy change was adopted at the study session.

Next steps: staff plans further outreach and to consider signage or promotional materials highlighting completed projects to spur additional participation.