Downtown Building Improvement Program

Purpose

The Downtown Building Improvement Program (DBIP) is part of the City’s goal to encourage economic development. The primary goal of the DBIP is to increase the occupancy of the City’s downtown. Secondary goals of the program are 1) to address safety and ADA issues; 2) improve the downtown building occupancy level; 3) and extend the lifecycle of existing historic buildings.

Advantages to Participants

Through a partnership with the City of Kilgore, the DRP allows downtown property owners to make needed building improvements at a reduced cost. With a reimbursement grant for of up to $40,000 per application equal to up to 50% of total eligible project cost, involvement in the program may help to increase private lender interest by improving project cash flow and reducing risk.

Eligible Area

The designated Downtown Core, Entertainment District and main entry corridors from 259 Hwy Business, E Main St and E North St. Please refer to Eligible Area Map.

Eligibility

 *The matching grant recipient must be the owner of the downtown property

 *The property must be located within the eligible area

 *Must be a taxable business

 *Property owner is eligible party.

 *The property owner must be willing to comply with all local and state laws and regulations

 *affecting the property, its rehabilitation and future use

Eligible Projects

*Life Safety Code compliance.

*Improvements for compliance with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

*Installation, repair and replacement of exit (exterior) doors and hardware.

*Historic reconstruction including storefront, door or window repair, masonry repointing etc. and removal of false fronts and additions that detract from a building’s architectural or historic character. 

For More Information 

 For more details about the program and or to apply please download the Downtown Building Improvement Progam Packet. Submission and additional questions may be emailed to permits@cityofkilgore.com or you may bring your completed packet to Kilgore City Hall attention Permit Office.