Citrus Heights marketing ‘Activate Auburn’ grant to improve image of Auburn Blvd.

Updated Aug. 8, 3:32 p.m.–
By Thomas J. Sullivan–
The City of Citrus Heights is taking proactive steps to market its “Activate Auburn” grant to the 200-plus commercial properties and business owners in the Auburn Boulevard redevelopment plan area, according to Meghan Huber, the city’s economic development manager.

As of last week, Huber said the city was planning to send a mailer out to businesses about the program, with plans to make additional information available on the city’s website as well.

Related: Citrus Heights moving forward with $22M plan to revitalize Auburn Blvd

Some $90,000 in total grant monies, supported by the city’s Economic Development Support Fund and the Sacramento Area Council of Government’s (SACOG) Community Design Program, have been made available by the city to help with needed exterior storefront improvements, Huber said. Funding is renewed each fiscal year.

Successful applicants receive a complimentary design consultation for external improvements, and a one-on-one consultation with a design professional who produces renderings illustrating ideas and implementable site improvements, including selections for color and lighting.

“The city will also offer a storefront matching grant for exterior site and front façade improvements, including paint, awnings and canopies, doors and windows,” Huber said. Matching funds can go as high as $20,000.

“We’re also offering help with the development of retail best practices, which will include a one-on-one consultation with each participant, and written report outlining our prioritized recommendations to better help them succeed,” she said.

The specific grant program is targeted to businesses in the Auburn Boulevard corridor who may have had planned to make needed exterior improvements, but have lacked the necessary funding to do so. The money is not available for businesses located in other parts of the city.

Several businesses who have utilized the grant money in the past include Crepes & Burgers, PCH Properties, and Lilliput Families’ offices at the corner of Auburn Boulevard and Twin Oaks Avenue.

The grant program is open-ended and has no deadline to apply, according to Huber. Those interested in obtaining information about the “Activate Auburn” grant, or to explore eligibility, are asked to contact Meghan Huber at mhuber@citrusheights.net or 916-727-4745.