Makeover Help for Some Storefronts on Main St.

Main Street businesses between Port Washington Blvd. and Mackey Ave. in need of a storefront makeover are in luck. These businesses qualify for a sign and awning grant of up to $2,500.

The program is spearheaded by North Hempstead Councilwoman Dina De Giorgio and the Community Development Agency.

The goal is to increase business and create a more pleasant, walkable Main Street.

Asked why businesses on certain streets qualify, De Giorgio said the program was “part of a community block grant,” which was based on 2010 Census results, and that there may be opportunities from other funding sources for those businesses that don’t meet the specifics for this particular grant.

To apply for the grant, the merchant or owner of a property, or both, must complete and submit a program application to the Town of North Hempstead Community Development Agency. Once all requirements are met, the CDA then provides a reimbursement check to eligible businesses of up to $2,500, or the cost of the sign or awning, whichever is less.

The application is available on the Portal 2 Port website. Contact Mr. Joseph Santamaria at (516) 869-7810 or santamariaj@northhempsteadny.gov with questions on the program.