Sunday, February 17, 2013

Historic Homeowner Grant

Art of War Concept: Opportunities multiply as they are seized.
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What is it going to take to revitalize downtown Anacostia? Various ideas and initiatives have been proposed, but there is one program that has had a tremendous immediate impact. Look no further than the Office of Planning's Historic Homeowner Grant. It has been 5 years since members of the Historic Anacostia Block Association (HABA) began the discussion on how to take advantage of this grant opportunity. The program affords homeowners who live in any of the city's historic districts to apply for up to $35k to fix-up the facade of their homes.
From new windows, doors, siding and new paint jobs, this program has done wonders for our neighborhood. Each renovation feels like an overnight transformation of our community and builds on our sense of pride. Since its inception, HABA has brought nearly $1.5 million in grant funds to our neighborhood!

A couple of long-time neighbors of mine recently took advantage of the program and I wanted to show off some of the pics.
BEFORE - U St
 Kinda blah...
 
 
AFTER - U St
 
Big Blue!
 

New windows, paint job and porch!

 Definitely adds to the curb appeal
 
Before - 16th St
 
 Trust me, the potential is there...
 
 After - 16th St
Even with a basic white paint job, the curb appeal is
much more inviting.