Pasadena is introducing a new grant initiative, the Commercial Façade Improvement Program, set to launch Friday, November 3. This program aims to revitalize the city’s commercial areas by providing up to $20,000 per business for exterior improvements. The city has allocated $200,500 for this effort, targeting approximately 10 businesses in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)-eligible areas across various council districts.
The program’s primary goals are to enhance disadvantaged areas, boost foot traffic, and increase sales. Eligible improvements include exterior signs, painting, new doors, lighting fixtures, decorative fencing, and window glass work. However, interior work, equipment, and furniture are not eligible for funding.
Businesses wishing to participate must operate street-level storefronts in CDBG-census tracts and be registered with SAM.gov, maintaining good standing with California authorities. Property ownership or a lease extending at least three years after construction completion is required, and any pending litigation with Pasadena disqualifies applicants.
An evaluation committee will score applications on a 100-point scale, considering impact, capacity, demonstrated need, and design vision. Applications open on November 3 and close on November 30, with grantees selected by January 2026. Selected businesses can begin improvements in January, with projects expected to be completed by May 2026. Reimbursement is scheduled for June 2026.
The program is partly funded by $1.5 million in federal funding secured in 2023, originally designated for outdoor dining, with around $100,000 allocated for façade work. A federal executive order temporarily halted fund use in July, but an agreement between the Economic Development Department and Housing Department in August cleared the way for the program’s launch.
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