Citywide Facade Grant Program
The City of Martinsburg provides a limited number of matching grants, up to $5000, for building façade improvements within Martinsburg. These grants are meant to support economic development by funding visual improvements that make properties and the community at-large more attractive and inviting. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until available funds are exhausted.
All standard conditions related to façade improvements must be met—including compliance with all building code, ordinance, and historic review rules for work completed. Applicants are strongly encouraged to meet with the Planning Department prior to applying for grant funds to understand what permits, reviews, inspections, or other required processes may affect their project.
To apply for the program, please complete this application and provide all necessary supplemental materials prior to beginning any work. If your project is approved, the City will provide a Letter of Commitment to reimburse the applicant 50% of project costs up to $5000.
Upon completion of project work, the applicant shall submit a request for reimbursement that includes: (a) one color photograph of the completed project; (b) documentation of expenses paid, whether to an appropriately licensed contractor or supplier for materials if labor is undertaken by the property owner directly; (c) a copy of the project’s letter of commitment from the City; and (d) any other materials deemed necessary by the City to document the completion of and payment for the project.
After review of the project and all completed documentation, the City shall authorize and issue the appropriate amount of reimbursement by check to the Applicant.
Questions about the grant program, including questions regarding the availability of funding, may be addressed to the Office of Economic & Community Development at (304) 264-2131 x 358 or sfarthing@cityofmartinsburg.org.
Questions about project compliance with planning, zoning, building, and historic codes may be addressed to the Planning Department at (304) 264-2141.
Step-by-Step Process
Determine Eligibility: Is your property zoned either business, or mixed-use? Is it within Martinsburg city limits? (Not all Martinsburg mailing addresses are in the City of Martinsburg.) Are you the property owner, or do you have documentation of the owner’s permission?
Define Your Project: Determine what improvements you want to fund with this grant. You can apply for up to $5000 in matching funds, meaning that for every dollar in grant funds you must spend a dollar of non-grant funds. You’ll have six months to complete the projects, including applying for and receiving all necessary permits and approvals.
Discuss with the Planning Department: The City will only issue grants for projects that meet all city requirements. Talk to the Planning Department to understand what approvals are needed and the necessary timelines.
Complete the Grant Application: The entire application can be completed online. You will need to explain the project, your estimated budget, and photos of the property before the improvements—and agree to meet all requirements.
Receive a Letter of Commitment: If your application meets all requirements and funding remains available, the City will issue you a “letter of commitment.” This letter confirms that your project is eligible and gives you six months to complete the work and submit documentation of reimbursable expenses.
Do the Work: Make the improvements to your facade as described.
Submit Documentation: Within 6 months, complete the work and submit the necessary documentation as requested in the Letter of Commitment. You’ll need to supply photos of the completed work, as well as documentation of actual spending of funds. This could include receipts for supplies or paid invoices from a contractor. All expenses will require documentation.
Receive Reimbursement: Once the City receives and approves your final documentation, a check will be issued reimbursing the applicant for 50% of the costs paid, up to the amount approved in the Letter of Commitment.