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Brainerd EDA approves $40,000 for façade and signage grants aimed at Washington Street businesses
Summary
The EDA approved a 2026 grant program allocating $25,000 for façade improvements (50% match, up to $5,000 per property) and $15,000 for signage grants (up to $1,000 match), prioritizing businesses along Washington Street during reconstruction; vote passed 3‑1.
The Brainerd EDA voted Dec. 4 to fund a combined $40,000 grant program to support façade and signage improvements that align with the Washington Street reconstruction.
Staff recommended directing $25,000 to façade improvements—structured as 50% matching grants up to $5,000 per property—and $15,000 to signage grants, with a $1,000 match per project. "For this year, staff is proposing to allocate $25,000 for façade improvements and $15,000 for signage improvements in 2026," staff said, noting the program would prioritize the Washington Street/Highway 210 corridor but allow signage grants citywide.
Commissioner Johnson questioned dipping into reserves for a grant program; staff responded that the EDA had set aside excess funds to pursue focused initiatives tied to the reconstruction. Supporters said the timing makes it a high‑impact use of funds, especially for small businesses that need modest matching grants to comply with the new sign ordinance and improve storefronts.
The board approved the grant program by a 3‑1 vote.
Next steps: staff will prepare program guidelines and a contract with the city’s grant administrator to administer the program and return with an implementation schedule and application materials.
