In November 2024, the Community of Rice Economic Development Corporation and the Rice City Council approved the Rice Storefront Improvement Grant.
The Storefront Improvement Grant Program will provide technical and financial assistance to property owners or business tenants seeking to renovate or restore existing commercial businesses, who have been operating for at least the last twelve (12) months, within the City of Rice. The program is funded by the Rice Economic Development Corporation (REDC).
Grant funds are designated to impact properties in need of revitalization, resulting in an improved exterior, visibility, and presentation of a business. Eligible improvements include:
- Structural or life/fire safety upgrades;
- Adding brick/masonry, repair, and/or cleaning of the same;
- Indoor/outdoor lighting;
- Facade repair/remodel/upgrades;
- Painting;
- Door/window replacement;
- Enhanced exterior signage;
- Landscaping enhancements;
- Parking improvements; and
- Monument Signage.
The funds are not designed to subsidize corrections to building code violations that prolong the life of a commercial property.
The grant will provide a fifty percent (50%) match up to twenty-five thousand dollars ($25,000) for the funding of well-designed improvements. REDC staff will be available to help applicants through the conceptual stage at no cost, including referrals to 3rd party resources. Applicants, however, will be responsible for hiring licensed architects and contractors to refine any conceptual design.
The applicant must provide all plans, approvals, receipts and specified documentation for their project.