Community Development Block Grant Funding for Facade Improvement Activities: Entitlement Communities in Massachusetts

Utilization of Community Development Block Grant funding for facade improvement activities calls for compliance of federal regulations and requirements while design of programming for activities is granted to the community. Limited information is available to assist communities for better decision-making and for policy makers to evaluate the program in practice. Through a survey and case profiles of three selected entitlement communities in Massachusetts, findings reveal compliance with regulations and requirements is achieved through a comprehensive planning process which includes the identification of facade improvement as a need, meeting a National Objective and adhering to the Davis Bacon provision. Findings reveal design of programming is both unique and similar among communities with grants offered most often, design review incorporated and cooperation with variety of stakeholders for marketing and support. Challenges to utilizing funds include the Davis Bacon provision and administrative capacity. Improvement in the appearance of facades is associated with increased pride for the community, consumer confidence in the economy, increased value in building and rents, creation of jobs, repopulation of the area and additional improvements of buildings and streetscapes in the area. Future research is recommended regarding the impacts of CDBG investment for facade improvement.