Improved façades can add value to commercial property and help retain and expand your customer base. The Façade Improvement Program is designed to offer commercial property owners within the Atlantic City Special Improvement District, currently paying the Special Improvement District assessment, the opportunity to improve their existing business façades. The Special Improvement District will fund up to 85% of the total cost, while the property owner is responsible for the remaining 15%.

The Casino Reinvestment Development Authority has selected a few grantees for this program. To qualify, the proposed improvements must have a positive impact on the other businesses on the block, a legitimate Atlantic Avenue location, architectural significance and continuity with other façades in it the neighborhood. Each selected property is eligible for just one grant under this program per calendar year. Grant commitments are valid for six months from the approval date.

Projects funded include façade restoration of brickwork, wood and masonry; the replacement, removal or repair of cornices, eaves, parapets and other architectural details; window and door repair or replacement; signage in accordance with the City of Atlantic City's design guidelines; painting or cleaning of the façade exterior; exterior lighting; repair, replacement, removal or addition of awnings or marquees; replacement of façade elements originally in place during the initial construction of the building; entranceway modifications including provisions to improve accessibility for the physically challenged; redesigned shop fronts; and such other improvements to the building exterior as may be approved by the Review Committee.

In 2005, the Façade Improvement Program is taking on 15 new and continuing projects, including two entire city blocks of Atlantic Avenue: Michigan to Mississippi Avenues in Ducktown, and North Boston to Sovereign Avenues. Both projects are currently under construction and, weather permitting, are expected to be completed by late spring.