The Essex Façade Improvement Grant Program is a strategic revitalization initiative designed to encourage investment in the enhancement and rehabilitation of commercial building frontages throughout Essex. By supporting exterior property improvements, the program seeks to strengthen the visual appeal, economic competitiveness, and overall vitality of the community’s commercial corridors.
Through this program, eligible property owners and business tenants may receive financial assistance for façade enhancements that improve the appearance, functionality, and marketability of their properties. Eligible improvements may include storefront renovations, signage, lighting, windows and doors, painting, masonry repairs, awnings, landscaping, and other exterior upgrades that contribute to a more cohesive and welcoming streetscape.
The program is intended to foster a vibrant and attractive business environment that encourages increased pedestrian activity, supports local businesses, attracts new investment, and enhances the experience of residents and visitors alike. By improving the aesthetic quality of commercial areas, the program also helps reinforce community pride and promote long-term economic development within Essex.
Funding for the Essex Façade Improvement Grant Program has been made possible through a variety of local and state partnerships over the years. Major funding sources have included the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development through its Community Legacy and Maryland Façade Improvement Programs, as well as the Baltimore County Department of Planning Façade Improvement Grant Program. These partnerships have enabled ongoing investment in the beautification and revitalization of Essex’s commercial district and business community
The 2026 Essex Facade Improvement Grant Program is currently CLOSED.
GENERAL GRANT PROGRAM INFORMATION
Geographic Rules
- Highest Priority: Properties located along the Eastern Boulevard corridor.
- Eligible, Lower Priority: Properties located within the Essex Sustainable Community boundaries but not on Eastern Boulevard.
Note: All projects must be located within the Essex Sustainable Community boundaries to be eligible. To view the Essex Sustainable Community Map, click HERE.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet all of the following:
- Applicant is either:
- Located within the Essex Sustainable Community boundaries.
- In Good Standing with Maryland SDAT.
- Code Enforcement violations ,must be resolved prior to project Implementation.
- Must attend one (1) Grant Information Session.
- Must attend two (2) Essex CDC Events between January 2025 and the time of project implementation.
- One (1) application per owner (business and/or property owner).
- Applicant must provide up to 10% matching funds toward the total project cost.
Eligible project types include:
- Murals
- Decals/window graphics
- Signage
- Awnings
- Landscaping (streetscape-facing)
- Exterior lighting
- Entrance improvements (windows and doors renewal)
- Storefront display improvements
- Façade replacement or upgrade
- Outdoor seating (if visible from the public right-of-way and approvable)
- To qualify, improvements must be visible from the public right-of-way and aligned with Essex Design Guidelines.
Requirements and Compliance
Applicants must be prepared to provide and/or verify the following (as applicable):
- Copy of Certificate of Insurance (business and/or property)
- Copy of Lease or Deed
- Proof of Good standing with the State of Maryland
- All required permits must be obtained prior to construction/installation
- Projects must be approved by the County Design Review Board and the Maryland Historical Trust
- Business/property must be in-person in Essex (not online-only)
- Applicant must sign a formal Grant Agreement with Essex CDC prior to award/disbursement
Conformance
By applying, the applicant acknowledges and agrees that:
- All information submitted is accurate and complete to the best of their knowledge.
- The proposed project will meet program requirements and will remain consistent with any approved scope/design.
- Essex CDC may require revisions to ensure alignment with design guidelines and program goals.
- The applicant will comply with permitting, approvals, and grant agreement requirements as a condition of funding.
All work must be completed by licensed and insured professionals.
QUESTIONS?
Contact Darasimi Arilesere, Beautification Coordinator, at beautification@essexcdc.org or call/text 443-579-7974.
