QUEENS — Small businesses in downtown Jamaica can now apply for grants allowing them to upgrade their storefronts, as part of the city's effort to boost the long-neglected neighborhood and increase foot traffic an area that has been undergoing major changes in recent years.
The program, announced recently by Mayor Bill de Blasio, will provide funds to dozens of businesses in the area to improve their signage and window displays through the Department of Small Business Services, the city said.
Small businesses and building owners will be able to receive up to $20,000 to make various upgrades — such as façade restoration, new awnings and exterior painting — with the grants reimbursing up to 75 percent of the improvement cost.
“Thriving small business corridors help foster vibrant neighborhoods across our city,” Gregg Bishop, commissioner of the Department of Small Business Services, said in a statement.
“The Jamaica storefront improvement program is investing in this community and will make Jamaica an even better place to live and to run a business," he noted.
In total, the program will offer $500,000, provided by the city's Economic Development Corporation, to help up to 30 local businesses.
The grants come to the neighborhood as part of the Jamaica NOW Action Plan, which seeks to revitalize the neighborhood.
Last year, several storefronts on Sutphin Boulevard also got a makeover thanks to a city grant to help beautify the area and attract more shoppers.
Those interested in the storefront improvement program have until Sept. 19 to apply. For more information, email storefronts@sbs.nyc.gov, call 212-513-9276 or visit nyc.gov/storefronts.
