West Side Residents Can Receive $2000 for Curb Appeal Improvements
Residents of Clearfield Borough on the West Side of Pennsylvanina have been presented with an opportunity to spruce up their homes and communities with the assistance of a new grant program. The initiative was announced by Lisa Kovalick, Executive Director of the Redevelopment Authority of Clearfield County, at a recent meeting of the Clearfield Borough Council.
Dubbed the “West Side Pride” program, the initial focus is on revitalizing the areas of Nichols and Merrill streets, located between Willaims and Weaver streets. Once improvements are visible in these areas, the project aims to expand to the next block.
This program is comprehensive, welcoming applications from homeowners, renters, and landlords residing in the specified area. Participants have the chance to receive matching grant funds of up to $2000, aimed at fostering visible enhancements to their homes.
However, the program comes with a caveat: in order to access the grant funds, an equal amount must be invested into the proposed improvement project by the recipient. For example, if a homeowner spends $1,000 on improvements, they are eligible for $1,000 in matching grant funds, as clarified by Kovalick.
The grant money can be utilized for a wide range of home improvement projects. These could include, but are not limited to, porch repairs, installation of new front doors or screen doors, painting, sidewalk repair or replacement, shrubbery, grass planting, roofing, and window replacement. The primary objective, according to Kovalick, is to enhance the overall “curb appeal” of the area.
A public meeting will be held by the redevelopment authority on Wednesday, April 26 at the grove in the Clearfield Driving Park. This meeting is aimed at residents and property owners within the target area who wish to take part in this neighborhood enhancement effort. For further details, residents can reach out to the authority directly at 814-765-5149.
Kovalick acknowledged the historical value of some properties within the target area, including a Victorian home that is over 140 years old. These older homes could particularly benefit from a fresh coat of paint. Kovalick expressed her intent to recruit volunteers for the purpose of painting these historic houses, further promoting the area’s appeal.
Lastly, Kovalick shared that the authority has plans to organize a community picnic down the line. This event will serve as a celebration of the efforts and achievements of the community in enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the West Side neighborhood.
