Community Development Division 9898 E Colfax Ave., Aurora, CO 80010 303-739-7900 (phone) 303-739-7925 (fax) communitydev@auroragov.org
Commercial Renovation Program
Anita Burkhart, Rehabilitation Supervisor
The Commercial Renovation Program provides funding to commercial property owners located in Original Aurora who want to improve the exterior of their businesses. This is a leveraged program in which 50 percent of the project cost is provided by the City in the form of a forgiven loan, and the remaining 50 percent is provided by the business/property owner(s) through private or commercial sources. This program is combined, whenever possible, with resources provided by the Aurora Business Development Center like the Interior Loan Program and the Revolving Loan Fund. Program		Before
Funding from the Commercial Renovation Program may be used for architectural design and construction costs. Nearly all types of exterior improvements are eligible for funding including, but not limited to, facade renovation, landscaping, parking and new signage are eligible. As a partner in the project, the city of Aurora provides technical assistance and project oversight to ensure design guidelines are followed and the project maintains a high level of construction quality. The Commercial Rehabilitation Specialist puts the project out for a competitive bid process and oversees the work—from architectural design drawings to actual construction. All completed work is inspected and approved by the City before contractors can be paid, which ensures high quality control.		Concept
All applications are reviewed and approved by the Commercial Loan and Grant Review Committee (CLRGC), which is comprised of local residents and business members. In addition, all projects must be approved by the City’s Planning Department and must be in compliance with all applicable city codes. In general, the Commercial Renovation Program focuses on highly visible projects that can have a large impact on improving the overall appearance and economic health of Original Aurora. In 2000, this program was expanded to include an Interior Renovation Loan Program component intended to help attract new businesses to the Original Aurora Business/Arts District. However, interior loans are considered only on a very limited basis.		After
What are the benefits of the Commercial Renovation Program?
By helping to eliminate blighted conditions and improve the overall appearance of Aurora’s aging retail corridors, the program plays a vital role in the revitalization of aging commercial sectors. Aesthetic enhancements can boost a business' appeal to consumers—thus creating new revenue streams and productivity. Infrastructure improvements can help owners reduce their maintenance costs and protect their investment. This program can also serve as an economic development tool. Job creation is among the criteria for determining a project’s viability and potential for success.
Inception Date: Funding Source: Funding Amount: Goal: Applicant Eligibility:	1983 CDBG $200,000 to 300,000 annually Complete 7 projects and create 25 jobs annually Business must be located in Original Aurora, with special consideration to those businesses located within the Fletcher Plaza Urban Renewal Area and Arts District
How to apply:	Call (303) 739-7900
Sample of Past Projects
Broyhill/Sonshine Furniture – Colfax Façade 10180 East Colfax Avenue Before -> Concept -> After
Broyhill/Sonshine Furniture – Rear Façade 10180 East Colfax Avenue Before -> Concept -> After
Goodwill Industries – Colfax Avenue Façade 10590 East Colfax Avenue Before -> After
Hunter Building 1440 Iola Street Before -> After
Hunter Building – Main Entryway 1440 Iola Street Before -> After
Young Building – Colfax Avenue Façade 9633-9699 East Colfax Avenue Before -> Concept -> After
Young Building – Colfax Avenue/Dayton Street Façade 9633-9699 East Colfax Avenue & 1511 Dayton Street Before -> Concept -> After