TDRA approves proposed grant-based development agreement

Special to The Trussville Tribune

TRUSSVILLE — The Trussville Downtown Redevelopment Authority has approved and forwarded to the city a proposed grant based development agreement to incentivize downtown property owners to update the facades of the buildings located in the downtown district. The Authority said it appreciates the efforts of the city recently in understanding the importance of its mission.

“We are excited to see Mr. Gunter and the city working together to improve his building in line with the TRDA vision,” Chairmain Keith Crumpton said. “We are also very excited about the guidelines for our ‘grant program’ we have set forth to the city to be approved.”

The proposal attempts to create a partnership between the owners of the various downtown properties and the City of Trussville. It contemplates participation of both parties to enhance the aesthetics of the downtown area, thereby allowing the city to promote and expand its commercial development and provide for the sustained economic health and well being of the city.

“TRDA feels like what Mr. Gunter plans to do to his building can be a model for other business owners in the downtown area to follow,” Crumpton said. “As we begin to get our program in place we hope to make that opportunity affordable for all who qualify to participate.”

It allows for participation of downtown owners and sets up a grant fund set up by the city in a specific amount to assist on a yearly basis. In order to qualify, the owner must adhere to various design standards in an effort to create a more uniformed look to downtown Trussville businesses.

The program provides a unique opportunity to accomplish many needs of the owners and to let them know that the city appreciates their existing businesses.

“The Redevelopment Authority also continues to work to create a downtown that would attract new business and enhance the environment for our existing merchants,” TDRA member Jef Freeman said. “We are working with our team lead by architect Dave Reeese. The engineering and planning are near complete, property acquisition underway and with the adequate investment from the city the improvements should be visible soon.”