Program Description

The ReStore Facade and Tenant Improvement Program is designed to enhance the visual appeal, economic vitality, and overall livability of commercial areas of downtown. The program provides matching grants to both property owners and business tenants for facade improvements and interior upgrades.

The current ReStore application cycle has closed.

Funding Limits

The City of Reno will reimburse applicants for 50% of eligible costs up to maximum grant total of $50,000 for exterior facade improvement projects, and up to $50,000 for interior tenant improvement projects. Matching grants for facade and tenant improvements can be combined at select locations for up to $100,000 in reimbursement. 

Funding Guidelines

• The City will provide a matching grant of up to 50% of the total project costs, capped at $50,000, to be reimbursed after the completion of the improvements. 
• Grants will be awarded while funding is available on a first-come, first-served and competitive basis, taking into consideration the quality of the proposed improvements, exceptional design, impact on the streetscape, and potential economic benefits.
•  Applicants must agree to maintain the improvements for a minimum of five years from the date of completion.
• Applicants must secure the remaining project funding from their own resources or other sources.

Eligibility Criteria

• Property owners and business tenants located in commercial and mixed use districts and neighborhoods.
• The property must be zoned for commercial or mixed use.
• Applications must demonstrate a commitment to long-term occupancy and maintenance of the improved property.
• First floor retail units must be usable for retail or restaurant uses at the completion of the project and shall be actively marketed for lease at reasonable lease rates for 5 years following the grant award. 
• With the exception of eligible architectural or design fees accrued during the application process, any work performed or materials purchased prior to approval of the agreement will not be eligible for reimbursement under the program. 
• A building permit shall be submitted within 90 days of the approved program agreement.  Work shall be complete within 180 days of an approved building permit, unless an alternative completion deadline is approved and incorporated into the final agreement. Extensions may be granted based on the discretion of the City. 
• Any work intruding within the public right-of-way, such as  awnings, signage and building facades, will also require approval and additional permitting through the Public Works Department. 
• Failure to complete the project within the time required will result in the agreement being terminated and reimbursement funding will not be provided. 

Application and Selection Process

• The City will announce a call for applications through its official website, local media, and community outreach channels. 
•  Interested property owners or business tenants must submit a completed application form, including project details, proposed budget, timeline, and any supporting documentation (e.g., sketches, renderings, historical preservation plans).
• A selection committee will evaluate the applications based on criteria such as architectural compatibility, design quality, historical preservation, impact on the surrounding area, and potential economic benefits. All improvements must be in compliance with all zoning and building code requirements. 
• Selected projects will enter into a grant agreement with the City, outlining the terms and conditions of the funding.
• Selected projects will have up to 90 days to submit for a building permit and another 180 days to complete the work upon approval of a building permit.

Application Materials

• The Application form
• Property address
• Proof of parcel ownership and/or applicant (tenant) lease agreement
• Photos of current facade and interior (respective to each grant program)
• Design drawings produced by a licensed architect or design professional showing complete renovation
• Three bids or cost estimates (The City will only fund a project using the most reasonable qualified bid/quote)

Facade Improvement Program (FIP)

Program Objectives

• Enhance the visual quality and aesthetics of commercial properties in Reno.
• Revitalize downtown as a unique cultural and retail hub. 
• Reduce vacancies in downtown. 
• Promote economic development and attract visitors and residents to downtown.
• Preserve and restore historical features, where applicable.

Eligible Expenses

• Exterior facade painting and repairs.
• Signage installation and upgrades.
• Architectural enhancements, such as awnings, canopies, or decorative elements.
• Windows and doors replacement or restoration.
• Lighting improvements for safety and ambiance.
• Landscaping enhancements within the facade area.
• Accessibility upgrades to comply with ADA requirements.
• Preservation and restoration of historical facade elements.
• Other facade improvements that enhance the visual appeal and contribute to the vitality of the commercial area.
• Architectural/design services and design. Not to exceed 10% of project costs. 
  

Tenant Improvement Program (TIP):

Program Objectives

• To encourage activation of storefronts throughout the urban core with new businesses.  
• To incentivize private investment into the commercial units and expand the offerings of existing businesses. 
• Support business growth and economic vitality by providing financial assistance for interior improvements.
• Enhance the functionality, accessibility, and overall customer experience of commercial spaces.

Eligible Expenses

•  Interior design and space planning.
• Structural modifications, including walls, ceilings, and flooring.
• Plumbing, electrical, and HVAC upgrades.
• Lighting improvements for energy efficiency and ambiance.
• Installation of fixtures, cabinetry, shelving, and displays.
• Accessibility upgrades to comply with ADA requirements.
• Soundproofing and insulation.
• Safety and security enhancements.
• Other interior improvements that contribute to the functionality, aesthetics, and customer experience.

The City of Reno currently has a Brownfields Grant program that can be combined with the RE-Store program to cover the cost of Phase I & II Environmental Site Assessments and Hazardous Material Assessments for adaptive reuse projects within downtown. 

If you have any questions, you can speak with the City of Reno's Revitalization Manager Bryan McArdle at 775-447-3206.

Please note that the current ReStore application cycle has closed.