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Program to fund improvements on Broad River Road

Staff Report //April 13, 2021//

Program to fund improvements on Broad River Road

Staff Report //April 13, 2021//

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A Richland County program providing funding for improvements on Broad River Road opened April 12.

The commercial facade improvement program provides up to $15,000 per project for exterior improvements to a commercial building or site. The program aims to attract and retain businesses, increase traffic to existing businesses and enhance property values, according to a news release from the county.  

Eligible projects, which can include signs, painting, lighting, parking lot resurfacing or security upgrades, do not require a funding match, as the county covers 100% of the cost, according to the release.  

“We have had success with the program in the past along Broad River Road, where we have been able to fund various improvements for local businesses, from new signage to helping repair roofs and parking lots,” Brian Crooks, Richland County interim planning services manager, said in the release. “These different activities have helped to strengthen the local businesses by making their properties more attractive to their clientele but also to the overall community. We have been able to identify additional funding that we can utilize to make further improvements along the business corridor.”

For an application, email Richland County’s Neighborhood Improvement Program at NIP@richlandcountysc.gov or visit the county planning department’s webpage. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until May 25 or until program funding has been expended.

Owners or tenants of commercial businesses fronting Broad River Road from the 2200 block to the 3100 block are eligible to apply. Owners of multiple properties may receive funding for more than one business but must submit a separate application for each location. All applicants must be currently registered and licensed with the Richland County Business Service Center and be up to date on all county taxes.

The county intends to open the program along the Broad River Road corridor and through other areas as funding allows, according to the release.

For more information, email NIP@richlandcountysc.gov or call 803-576-2190.

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