BY AUBREY VOGEL CONTRIBUTIONS BY KELLY SCHAFLER
What’s next
Zooming out
Applications are expected to open Jan. 1 for the commercial grant program and will be accepted on a rolling basis with dollar amounts depending on the cost and scope of the project, Huble said. Beyond 2025, the program is expected to have an annual application, she said. Keri Schmidt, president and CEO of the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce, said she believes the city’s designation as a music-friendly community in mid-October and staff’s focus on events will pair with retail improvements. “When you have the aesthetics going and how beautiful everything is and then you add to it exciting events that draw people to your community, then you really have the whole package,” she said.
Beyond commercial centers, the city also has two revitalization programs focusing on home and neighborhood improvements, Huble said. Since 2015, the Fostering Unique Neighbor- hoods, or FUN grant, has provided a percentage of funding to homeowner associations, property owner associations and community groups to create unique spaces in neighborhoods, according to the city’s website. The FUN grant has funded 38 projects , with the city contributing nearly $1.59 million for a total investment of $3.78 million . Meanwhile, the Great Homes Update Program, which revitalizes home exteriors, finished its second year in September by funding 122 projects in 2024 with a total cost of $2.1 million in improvements and a city commitment of roughly $305,000 , Huble said. “It’s important for us to remain an economic and regional leader, and we have to take intentional and proactive steps to make sure we remain that,” she said.
City of Sugar Land’s revitalization investments since 2015
Fostering Unique Neighborhoods Grant: $1.59M Great Homes Update Program: $705,000 Commercial Revitalization Grant Program: $500,000
Total $2.79M
Great Homes Program 2023-24 investments
projects approved 267
reinvestment into the city $4.4M
SOURCE: CITY OF SUGAR LAND/COMMUNITY IMPACT
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SUGAR LAND - MISSOURI CITY EDITION
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