SNOW HILL, Md. -- Snow Hill business owners could once again gain access to state funding aimed at enhancing their establishments. With a proven track record of success in the past, businesses are optimistic that this latest round of grants will further contribute to the town's economic rejuvenation.
One notable addition to Snow Hill is the Imagination Village at Snow Hill Toys, featuring a mock diner, grocery store, and theater.
Diana Nolte, the owner of the shop, credits the Community Legacy Rehabilitation Grant for making this imaginative expansion possible.
"A lot of the construction here, to add a second business to my space, was partially funded through a matching grant through the legacy fund," said Nolte.
Under this grant, which is awarded by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development, businesses can receive a 50% match of the overall cost for capital improvement projects. Businesses must also be inside of Snow Hill's Sustainable Community Area. A map for that area has been attached to this article.
Here is how the grant works:
Snow Hill is allocated $50,000 from the state, with individual contributions from the grant capped at $10,000. Eligible projects include: HVAC upgrades, exterior painting, interior floor treatments, electrical system upgrades, interior plumbing upgrades, wall or ceiling upgrades and ADA compliance changes.
Owners can also receive money for R&R of incompatible exterior finishes/materials, reconfiguring existing doors and entrances, R&R of existing window systems, interior or exterior lighting enhancements, signage repairs, rehabilitation of vacant structures and awnings(new, repairs or replacements).
Property acquisition, demolition, new construction, rehabilitation, architectural and engineering drawings and site development are also eligible under this grant.
Nolte has future plans to enhance the accessibility of her store.
"Probably by next year, I would be working on a grant application for ADA compliance."
Khurram Riaz, owner of Chicken Man Food Store, has also previously benefited from the Legacy Grant. Riaz re-paved the parking lot and re-did the doors at one of his convenience stores. He intends to reapply to address roofing issues and renovate the interior at his food store.
"It's leaking in some places, and I need a new floor inside so it looks good," said Riaz.
Joseph Delvecchio of Delvecchios Bakery sees the open door for grant funding as a positive opportunity.
"We're always looking to move something around here, I mean, any kind of refrigeration unit always helps," said Delvecchio.
Snow Hill businesses have a myriad of projects on their to-do list, and the additional support from the state is eagerly anticipated. The town's grant manager remains hopeful, stating that they are still awaiting final approval for this year's $50,000 grant. Confirmation is expected in the next few days.
The town does have $7,845 remaining from last years grant. Businesses who wish to apply for all of that money, or a portion of it, must do so by 4:30 p.m. on February 16th, 2024.
