Anniston opens applications for historic revitalization grants

Anniston has opened applications for its new Building Improvement Grant (BIG) Revitalization Program which will reward funds through a $750,000 grant from the National Park Service’s Historic Preservation Fund.

The program is designed to help property owners “reinvest in Anniston’s historic commercial buildings” while addressing infrastructure needs and revitalizing vacant spaces in downtown.

The full amount is expected to be distributed locally through competitive subgrants administered by the Anniston Downtown Development Authority and overseen by Main Street Anniston.

“This is where the work of securing this grant begins turning into visible investment in Downtown Anniston. We want property owners to look at buildings and spaces that may have been difficult to rehabilitate in the past and begin thinking seriously about what they can become. Our team is here to help applicants understand the process and develop strong, realistic projects.”

Karla Eden, Executive Director of Main Street Anniston

Here’s what you need to know to apply for the funds.

How to apply for Anniston BIG Revitalization Program

Applications for the Paul Bruhn Historic Revitalization Grant officially opened Thursday, Sep. 3 at 9AM.

Eligible properties must be located within the Downtown Anniston or West 15th Main Street Anniston business districts. Property owners may apply directly, while tenants may apply with authorization from the property owner.

Before submitting an application, the city says all potential applicants must schedule and complete a pre-application meeting with Main Street Anniston to help determine project eligibility. To schedule a pre-application meeting:

• Contact Main Street Anniston
  • 256-848-1211
  • mainstreet@annistonal.gov
  • Monday through Friday, from 8AM-4:30PM

Eligible projects may include:

• Historic preservation and rehabilitation
• Structural stabilization
• Code-compliance and life-safety improvements
• Adaptive reuse
• Upper-floor activation

The B.I.G. Revitalization Program is a 50% matching, reimbursement-based grant program. Applicants must demonstrate their ability to provide the required matching funds, and no project work may begin before approval.

Applications will be competitively reviewed based on economic and housing impact, project need and readiness, design compatibility, historic integrity, financial leverage, and community visibility and benefit. Projects receiving a score of 70 points or higher may be recommended for funding, subject to eligibility, available funding, and required National Park Service approval.