Facade Improvement Grant Program

The Downtown Development Authority (DDA) has set aside funds for the enhancement of building facades in downtown Hastings.  These matching grants assist property owners with the appearance of their individual buildings, storefronts, signs, alleys, window displays, parking lots, and sidewalks, which enhance the visual character of the downtown and play a major role in the marketing success of the business district. 

The DDA recently included additional grant funds for the architectural facade study renderings.  The rendering funding does not require a match if it is part of a proposed facade project.  The DDA understands the value of providing design assistance when helping a property owner best express their building facade character.

Click on the following links for a facade grant application, grant guidelines, and design guidelines. 

 USDA/DDA Building Exterior Improvement Program

The Downtown Development Authority recieved revolving loan grant funds from the United States Department of Agriculture and established an Exterior Building Improvement Program at a level of $100,000.00. The initial project funded rehabilitation of six properties within the downtown.  The program is now utilizing program income to make additional loans.  The loan terms are zero percent interest for seven years and the average loan amount is ten to fifteen thousand dollars.  The applicant must provide a fifty percent match in funds to be spent on the project.

Click on the following link for a loan application packet.

USEPA Brownfield Assessment Grant Program

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) has awarded the City of Hastings a Brownfield Hazardous Substance Assessment Grant Cooperative Agreement (CA) for community-wide assessments of properties.  The City, along with Carlton, Hastings, and Rutland Townships formed a Coalition to apply for this grant.  As the lead Coalition member and CA recipient, the City will manage the grant program and report to the USEPA.  The grant funds will be used to assess brownfield sites within the Coalition communities; investigate historic uses and environmental contamination; and develop liability management and remedial strategies that will allow for safe and viable redevelopment/reuse of brownfield sites.  The Coalition is seeking environmental assessment projects that are eligible for grant funding. 

Click on the following link for guidelines and an application.