The Essex Façade Improvement Grant Program aims to stimulate investment in and improvements to building frontages in Essex, contributing to the economic vitality of the area. The goal is to create an attractive and inviting commercial/retail area that encourages regular use by residents and visitors. This program has been funded by several sources over the years, including through the State of Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development’s Community Legacy and Maryland Facade Improvement Programs, as well as through the Baltimore County Department of Planning’s Facade Improvement Grant Program.
Applications for the 2026 Essex Facade Improvement Grant Program are OPEN!
- TRACK 1 Application Deadline is Monday, March 9
- TRACK 2 Application Deadline is Monday, April 6
Access the APPLICATION at the following LINK.
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.
