Community Redevelopment Agency
This is an annual program to help small businesses improve the exterior of existing commercial buildings and properties. Eligible applicants can receive up to $50,000 for improvements to the façade of commercial structures and properties located within the boundaries of the Greater Frenchtown Southside (GFS) Community Redevelopment Area. Grant funds are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis and are available throughout the fiscal year until all funds are committed. The first $10,000 of the grant does not require a match by the applicant. A request for grant funds above $10,000 (up to a maximum of $40,000) requires a dollar-for-dollar match.
Guidelines & Application for the Business Facility Improvement Program (PDF)
Map of the areas eligible for the Business Facility Improvement Program (PDF)
Sheila Williams • 850-891-8355 • Community Redevelopment Agency Department
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Upcoming CRA Meetings and Events
The City Commission established the Community Redevelopment Agency (Tallahassee CRA) in 1998 to create a framework for the redevelopment and enhancement of selected areas of the central urban district. The Tallahassee CRA has two distinct redevelopment areas, the Greater Frenchtown/Southside Community Redevelopment Area, established in June 2000, and the Downtown District Redevelopment Area, established in June 2004.
The Tallahassee CRA was established under the authority of Part III, Chapter 163, Florida Statutes, through the adoption of Ordinance No. 98-O-0046, as amended, on September 23, 1998. On June 23, 2004, the CRA entered into an interlocal agreement with the City of Tallahassee and Leon County regarding the creation and operation of the Downtown District Community Redevelopment Area, the establishment of any new community redevelopment area or the expansion of any community redevelopment area. Get more information on the interlocal ordinances and resolutions.
The goal of the Tallahassee CRA is to create and implement strategies that use a combination of public and private resources to facilitate redevelopment that enhances the built environment and strengthens local economic conditions within each redevelopment district. To meet this goal the Tallahassee CRA seeks projects that help reduce or eliminate the continuation and/or spread of blight. Individual projects and policies are supported based on the specific conditions and needs identified within the Greater Frenchtown/Southside Community Redevelopment Plan and the Downtown Community Redevelopment Plan. Areas where the Tallahassee CRA concentrates redevelopment efforts includes, but is not limited to commercial development, mixed-use development, neighborhood and housing improvements (with a focus on affordable housing), infrastructure, transportation, and support for promotional and special events. Funds are provided through grants and/or loans based on the funding gap of the proposed project, the projected Return on Investment and the community benefit.
Boundaries/Service Area:
The Greater Frenchtown/Southside Community Redevelopment Area consists of three distinct geographic sections and is comprised of over 1,450 acres of residential, office, commercial/retail, industrial, and green/open space land uses, all conveniently located near downtown Tallahassee. Included within the boundaries of the redevelopment area are thirteen neighborhood communities; seven major commercial/retail areas including sections of Tennessee Street, Tharpe Street, North and South Monroe Streets, Gaines Street, Lake Bradford Road and South Adams Street; and numerous mixed-use areas. In addition, the redevelopment area borders parts of the Florida A&M University (FAMU) and the Florida State University (FSU). Extensive city infrastructure, including water, sewer, electricity and gas, are available throughout the redevelopment area.
Business Facility Improvement Program (Greater Frenchtown Southside)
The Downtown District Community Redevelopment Area consists of approximately 440 acres located in downtown Tallahassee, between the northern and southern portions of the Greater Frenchtown/Southside Community Redevelopment Area. The Downtown District is comprised of five sub areas with distinct land uses, physical characteristics and functions. These sub areas are: (1) North Monroe Street, (2) the Downtown Core, (3) Franklin Boulevard, (4) Gaines Street, and (5) Capital Cascades. Land uses in the Downtown District include residential, office, commercial/retail, light industrial, and green/open space. The entire area is serviced by city infrastructure, including water, sewer, electricity, and gas. View a map of both redevelopment districts (PDF).
Is My Property Within the CRA District?
Enter your address into the field below to determine if your property is within a CRA district.