Revere Dept. of Planning & Community Development partners with Gamble Assoc. and Omloop, launches new signage/design improvement program for Broadway and Shirley Ave. small businesses

  Through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), the City of Revere’s Department of Planning & Community Development (DPCD) announced, they will provide grants up to $50,000 to eligible property and small business owners for façade improvements (which may include signage) in the Broadway and Shirley Avenue Business Districts. Additionally, the DPCD will grant up to $7,500 to eligible small business owners for signage-only improvements.

  Vibrant and attractive downtown or commercial business districts are fundamental in providing residents access to quality goods and services, and a well-designed storefront and signage can improve consumers’ perception and experience within a commercial district, increase foot traffic, create safer streets and expand product diversification within the marketplace.

  “Sign and Façade improvements are a great way to enhance the visibility of our small businesses and also play a critical role enhancing the look and feel of the entire block,” said DPCD Chief Tom Skwierawski. “We are fortunate to be working with Gamble Associates and Omloop, design experts who will support our efforts to enhance the Broadway and Shirley Avenue business districts.”

  The City has contracted with urban planners Gamble Associates and Omloop to provide free design consultation services to a number of property and small business owners, which is a requirement to utilize the program. Eligible exterior upgrades and replacements projects include:

• Design services
• Exterior painting
• Removing inappropriate and or incompatible exteriors finishes and materials
• Restoring exterior finishes and materials
• Installation of safety glass
• Recessing/reconfiguring of existing storefront doors and entrances to meet ADA compliance.
• Repairing or replacing existing storefront window systems
• Exterior building signage and lighting
• Repairing or replacement of existing awning

  “The Broadway corridor in Revere has an impressive array of services and locally-owned businesses,” said Gamble Associates Principal David Gamble. “This strategic effort provides design guidance to enhance building facades and business signage that capitalize on the diversity and stimulate economic development.”

  There are two applications for this program, and both are available on a rolling basis on www.revere.org/smallbusiness. If you missed the information sessions, they are available in both English and Spanish on the website.