Ten Local Businesses To Receive Commercial Facade Grants

Fort Wayne mayor Tom Henry announced that ten local businesses will receive 2013 Commercial Facade Grants, including one that will enhance the Quimby Village area.  This year's facade grant awardees will receive $202,691 in city funding and have pledged to contribute nearly $850,000 in private investment to make improvements on their properties.

The Quimby Village/Clyde Theater Renovation Project will receive a $40,000 Facade Grant.  The owner, Rick Kinney of Even Keel Event Productions, will match the grant with approximately $150,000 in improvements.

Kinney plans to open a multifunctional performing arts center, art gallery and recording studio.  Retail office space will also be available. 

Kinney tells WFFT he is also looking for investors before he can begin restoration. To contact Kinney for investment opportunities, email him at rick@evenkeelevents.com.

Mayor Henry introduced the Commercial Facade Grant program in 2008 as part of his ongoing commitment to help local businesses thrive and expand, particularly in the heart of the city.  The program is designed to assist business owners in making improvements to the exterior of their commercial properties.

In addition to the Quimby Village Revitalization Project, the other 2013 Facade Grant recipients are:

-Billy's Dug Out, 1304 Fairfield Ave.
-Born Again Quilts, 4005 S. Wayne St.
-Brewer's Art Supply, 1425 Wells St.
-Fairfield Shops, 2002-2014 Fairfield Ave.
-Java Bean, 2715-2717 Broadway
-North Anthony Center, 3322-3528 N Anthony Blvd.
-Oyster Bar, 1830 S. Calhoun St.
-Red Wood Inn, 1432-1436 W. Main St.
-2020 Broadway Building, 2020 Broadway