MONROE — Using Watertown’s existing program as a best practice example, Main Street Monroe, the 501(c)3 nonprofit handling community development downtown, announced a new grant program this week to assist downtown businesses and property owners with the maintenance and purchase of awnings.

“This has been a goal of our for some time, especially since the demand has been there,” said Jordan Nordby, Main Street Monroe’s Executive Director. “The purpose of this program is to offer business and building owners assistance in enhancing the visual appeal [of the properties]. The primary goal is to contribute to and preserve the aesthetics of our historic streetscape,” he explained. “It’s going to benefit everyone.”

All commercial or mixed-use properties with awnings are eligible for this program, excluding publicly-owned properties and religious institutions. The façade improvements must be in accordance with the city’s Zoning Codes, including its Historic Preservation Committee. For work to be eligible, the project will have to be approved by Main Street’s volunteer driven Design Committee and Board of Directors in tandem with city requirements. Upon completion, and with proof of payment, Main Street will reimburse up to 50% of the projects cost or $750.

Funding for the project comes from a private donor in Monroe and $2,000 from Southwestern Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission which took project proposals to allocate American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding signed into law by President Biden in March 2021. Main Street was approved for those federal dollars towards the beginning of the year. Main Street anticipates dispersing $7,500 in grants by the end of this calendar year and is committed to continuing the project through at least the end of 2023.

The first grant recipient will be Randy and Stephanie Riese, owners of the Garden Deli on the south side of the square. They have owned the business for 8 and half years. Their awning was installed by the previous owners and was past the point of repair. 

Stephanie Riese, a Monroe native, said, “we’ve loved getting to know the community and connecting with people on a personal level. Downtown Monroe is the best location for a restaurant because we have the ideal combination of business lunches, tourists, and local regulars. We needed a new awning for several years, but the impact of COVID made that impossible. We’re thrilled to have the support of Main Street Monroe, which enabled us to order this gorgeous new canvas to brighten up the downtown.”

While net yet approved, Nordby expects that projects on 16th Avenue towards the middle school, across from the post office on 11th Street, and on the north side of the square will also receive grants by this fall. The Main Street District is the square and approximately three blocks off in all directions. Main Street anticipates being able to review applications monthly in keeping with existing committee and board meeting schedules. “We’re successfully leveraging and maximizing private and federal dollars. While it’s going to help local business owners who need it most, it’s really going to have a huge impact on our entire community.”