Applications are being accepted for landscaping, renovation, building façade improvement and additional residential unit projects in Sarnia's downtown and Mitton Village areas.
The city's economic development director said they're ready to give out the $100,000 allocated to the community improvement plan in the 2021 budget.
Kelly Provost said the purpose of the plan is to stimulate redevelopment, address needs and facilitate property improvements in the two designated commercial areas.
"We're hoping the program is going to help spark investment from the private sector for property improvements and redevelopment where it's needed in these two parts of the city," she said. "The ultimate goal of these efforts is really just to address needs within these neighbourhoods and create beautiful, connected, inclusive spaces in the city."
Grants covering up to 50 per cent of the cost of a project, up to a maximum amount, are available.
Owners and tenants of private properties in the two areas can apply and the applications will be considered on a first-come-first-serve basis until all of the funds are gone.
In addition, an exemption program that provides eligible properties in those areas with a 50 per cent reduction to planning and building application fees has been extended.
More information about the grants and how to apply can be found here.
Anyone interested in the fee exemption program is asked to email planning@sarnia.ca.
