The Frederick County Historic Resources Advisory Board (HRAB) is offering a grant program funded by remaining donations from the County’s 250th anniversary celebration in 1988. These monies were allocated to the HRAB for historic preservation efforts and were partially used to establish the Historic Plaque Program, which recognized notable county buildings with bronze plaques. The remaining balance is now being dedicated to the rehabilitation of historically significant buildings in Frederick County that are in urgent need of repair or to support programs that prioritize historic preservation. The objective is to support the preservation and continued use of these structures while enhancing their long-term value to the community. Given the limited funding available, the HRAB acknowledges that these grants are intended to support, rather than fully finance, larger preservation projects. This grant is limited to 501C(3) organizations. Projects will be awarded a maximum of $4,000 each. Applicants may apply for multiple projects, but only two may be approved for funding.
The awarded amount will be reimbursed upon completion of the project. Projects approved for funding will have a twenty-four (24) month period for completion from signing the grant agreement. Six (6) month progress reports to the board are to include progression documents, including photos of work and bills from the project. All applications must be submitted to Frederick County Planning & Development no later than Jan. 30th.
Priority is given to buildings that meet the following criterion:
1. Historical Significance Priority is given to properties that are individually listed or contribute to a district on the National Register of Historic Places or are recognized as historically significant by state or local authorities.
2. Condition of the Resource The current physical condition of the structure is a major factor in funding decisions. Buildings in threatened or deteriorated conditions that demonstrate an urgent need for intervention to prevent further immediate deterioration will be prioritized.
All applications should include a clear assessment of the resource’s condition, supported by photos and, if possible, reports from preservation professionals or contractors.
3. Project Urgency and Impact Priority will be given to projects where immediate intervention will arrest active deterioration or prevent irreversible damage to the resource.
4. Preservation Standards and Approach Proposed work must follow the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation. Approaches should emphasize repair over replacement and prioritize preservation of original materials and features.
5. Public Benefit and Community Impact Projects that will benefit the public through access, educational use, visibility, tourism, or community revitalization are encouraged.
6. Completeness of Application All requested documents (photos, ownership records, plan for funding, historic designation, etc.) must be included for the application to be considered.
Click here for full information and the application.
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