Coldwater, Mich. (5 May 2023) - The Coldwater Downtown Development Authority (DDA) awarded $5,000 from its Building Improvement Program to William and Cheryl Flickinger for façade renovations that took place at 22 W. Chicago Street. The Flickinger family invested in a historic three-color paint scheme, new storefront windows, restoration of the iconic second floor windows, and extensive structural repairs that remediated damage left over from a fire that occurred in the late 1800s.
The family was also awarded low interest financing form Southern Michigan Bank & Trust, made possibly through the bank’s partnership with the DDA and its Building Improvement Program. Investment for the renovations exceeded $237,000 in addition to the building purchase, and architectural and engineering costs.
“The Flickinger family has made a remarkable investment in 22 W. Chicago Street. The family is passionate about historic preservation and committed to the Coldwater community. The DDA is pleased to provide incentives from our Building Improvement Program to help bring their vision to fruition”, said Mike Caywood, DDA Board President.
The DDA’s Building Improvement Program fund is designed to stimulate façade improvements of downtown buildings, support critical maintenance activities, and incentivize renovations. It includes a rebate program provided by the DDA, and a low interest loan pool offered in partnership with Southern Michigan Bank & Trust and Century Bank and Trust. The rebate program has disbursed over $75,000 to downtown projects since it was reinstated 2019, resulting in over $2.8 million of private investment. Funds have been used for new awnings, new signage, updated paint schemes, windows, tuck pointing, and other eligible expenses.
For information about the Building Improvement Programs, visit the DDA’s web page on coldwater.org or contact Audrey Tappenden at [email protected]
About the City of Coldwater: The City of Coldwater is a town in southern Michigan. Established in 1861, the City is a thriving community centrally located between Detroit, Toledo, Fort Wayne, South Bend, and Kalamazoo. Known for its historic charm and up-and-coming atmosphere, the City annually hosts events such as Strawberry Fest, Apple Fest, Winter Fest, and Hops on Monroe. The City of Coldwater is one of the fastest-growing communities in the State of Michigan.
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