Revitalization and Placemaking Program (RAP) - Facade Program Implementation

The Revitalization and Placemaking (RAP) Program Façade Program Implementation track is administered by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) to support community revitalization and economic vibrancy across Michigan. The goal is to proactively invest in traditional downtowns, central business districts, and neighborhood commercial nodes by enhancing the streetscape and rehabilitating commercial building facades, thereby attracting talent, encouraging business growth, and boosting local tax revenues.

To be eligible, applicants must have or participate in the administration of an existing, currently active, locally administered facade improvement program for privately owned buildings. Competitive applicants must show an established track record, transparent and predictable local application processes, clear program priorities reflecting historic preservation and resilient building materials, design guidelines or design assistance, and an identified pipeline of shovel-ready facade projects. Single entities may submit a subgrant application on behalf of multiple local building owners.

Eligible projects must be located in or contribute to a traditional downtown, central business district, neighborhood commercial node, or adjacent walkable neighborhood, and conform to the guidelines of the local facade program. Eligible costs include building alterations, architectural and engineering fees, and attached streetscape elements like awnings, lighting, and integrated public art. Standalone interior redevelopments or projects outside qualifying commercial areas are ineligible.

Applications are accepted through a competitive funding round via an online portal. Applicants must complete an overarching program application and submit individual project details for each building in the pipeline, accompanied by cost estimates dated within six months, design documents, and proof of committed matching funds. Submissions must include a formal letter of support from the highest local municipal official.