PDC facade grants fuel $360K in downtown upgrades

Published on July 13, 2026

The Powell Development Corporation (PDC) has approved $56,738 in façade improvement grants to support three Downtown Powell properties, leveraging more than $360,000 in private investment that will enhance Downtown Powell and strengthen the local business community.

The grants were awarded through the PDC's Façade Improvement Grant Program, which provides matching funds to property and business owners for exterior building improvements that revitalize and create a sense of vibrancy in Downtown Powell.

The three projects receiving funding include:

COhatch – Middlebury House: A $25,000 grant that supported the exterior improvements to the 140-year-old Middlebury House. The historic property next door to COhatch is now open and serves as a rentable meeting and event space.
Espresso 22: A $12,500 grant that assisted with the construction of a new outdoor front patio, creating additional seating and an inviting space for customers to enjoy the locally owned coffee shop.
Local Roots: A $19,238 grant for exterior painting and landscaping for the locally owned farm-to-table restaurant, refreshing the building's appearance while contributing to the overall aesthetic of Downtown Powell.

Together, the three projects represent more than $360,000 in total private investment.

The PDC is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening Powell's economy by supporting business attraction, retention and expansion while preserving the city's unique character.

"The Façade Improvement Grant Program is one of the many ways the PDC partners with local businesses to invest in Powell's future," said Sean Hughes, executive director of the Powell Development Corporation. "These projects not only improve individual properties but also enhance the overall appearance and vitality of our downtown. Creating activity centers to increase vibrancy in Downtown is a primary goal of this program, so assisting in the construction of patios and other gathering spaces Downtown helps us to achieve that goal.”

Since its inception, the Façade Improvement Grant Program has helped encourage private investment in Downtown Powell by improving storefronts, creating outdoor activity spaces, preserving historic buildings and supporting local businesses.