“I am excited for the launch of the new Exterior Improvement Grant Program in District 7,” said Councilmember Adam Bazaldua. “With the investment of District 7 discretionary bond funds, we’re helping small businesses upgrade their exterior spaces, create more inviting storefronts, and contribute to a more vibrant and attractive business community in Southern and Far East Dallas. This initiative is a meaningful investment in both our small business community and the overall look and feel of our neighborhoods. I look forward to seeing the success of this program and implementing it on a large city scale.” 

The City Council’s approval creates a new grant program to fund eligible exterior capital expenditures to stimulate business growth and commercial activity in District 7, such as building façade improvements, hardscape improvements, streetscape improvements, and building envelope/energy efficiency improvements. Expenses related to routine maintenance and repairs are not permitted.  

Examples of eligible projects include the below: 

• Permanent building façade improvements and enhancements such as masonry, siding, windows, doors, and lighting fixtures permanently affixed to the building. Stand-alone painting or signage replacement not part of a broader renovation is not eligible.
• Hardscape site improvements such as new or replacement fencing, full parking lot reconstruction or resurfacing. Routine patching or restriping alone is not eligible.
• Permanent art installations or murals affixed to real property and intended to remain for the useful life of the structure.
• Streetscape/site improvements including sidewalks, lighting, and integrated landscaping that form part of a capital project.
• Tree planting only when part of a larger permanent infrastructure or redevelopment project.
• Beautification and accessibility improvements such as benches, trash receptables, and bike racks when permanently affixed as part of a capital project.
• American with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) Improvements
• Environmental efficiency/building envelope improvements (green roofs, energy efficient windows and lighting, integrating renewable energy sources)  

Grant funding will be provided on a reimbursement basis. The maximum grant award is $50,000; however, the amount of grant funding a project can receive will depend on overall project size. Projects  under $25,000 can receive a grant reimbursing 80% of the total project cost. Projects between $25,001 and $50,000 can receive a grant reimbursing 70% of total project cost. Projects larger than $50,000 can receive a grant reimbursing up to 50% of the total project cost (subject to the maximum grant award amount of $50,000).  

Applications for the program will be available on the Office of Economic Development website on December 15, 2025. Funds will be available until expended, and applications will be processed on a first-come, first-serve basis upon receipt of a complete application.