Facade Improvement Loan program to help businesses on Broadway | Business

CAPE GIRARDEAU, MO (KFVS) - Old Town Cape has announced the completion of the first Facade Improvement Loan intended to encourage building improvements in the downtown area.

According to Old Town Cape, Annie Laurie's Antiques at 536 Broadway is the first business to fully utilize the program that includes preliminary design assistance at no cost to the participant. Laurie Everett is both the business and property owner.

The program was developed through a partnership between Old Town Cape, the Cape Girardeau Area Community Development Corporation and the Industrial Development Authority. It provides financial assistance in the form of low-interest loans to qualified property owners and tenants.

"With the downtown shaping up I felt an obligation to get our building spruced up as well," Everett said. "We are excited about the changes and can't wait to see what the future holds for our beloved downtown."

Marla Mills, Executive Director of Old Town Cape said improvements like Laurie's will have a domino effect. She said they hope the Facade Program can help additional property or business owners improve their properties, especially in the Broadway area where the street has received such a significant enhancement.

Interested downtown property and business owners can contact Marla Mills, Executive Director of Old Town Cape at 573-334-8085 or marlamills@oldtowncape.org to receive additional information about the Facade Loan Program.

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