The Apopka Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) Board unanimously adopted a new residential façade repair grant program designed to help residents afford home improvements by simplifying the application process, offering homeowners contractor options, and focusing on quality repairs that have a positive community impact.
The CRA Board finalized the details of the grant program at its Aug. 20 meeting. Each eligible property can receive up to $30,000 in grant funding within a 10-year period. Up to 10% of the grant may be used for soft costs like permits and licenses, with the remainder allocated for direct home improvements.
“One of the things I think is completely critical for it to be successful is for it not to be perceived as it’s so convoluted and complicated for the residents that they almost feel intimidated to even apply for the program. But we also want to protect the CRA and City’s interests as well,” said Antranette Forbes, the city’s economic development director.
