Give your business some curb appeal!
The LPCC manages rebate programs in Lincoln Park for property owners to keep their façades attractive and inviting. These programs are available to the properties located within the Special Service Area (SSA) districts on Clark Street and Lincoln Avenue.
The rebate programs are intended to beautify and revitalize the Clark Street and Lincoln Avenue commercial areas and include a Façade enhancement and Signage Rebate, a Vandalism Repair Rebate and a Security Enhancement Rebate. We know, we know, so many benefits to being in the neighborhood!
For more information
Download the program packet and application for the appropriate rebate program:
- Properties within the Clark Street SSA , which includes all properties fronting Clark Street from Armitage on the south to Diversey on the north. In addition, it includes all properties fronting the south side of Diversey from Orchard to Lakeview. See the Clark Street SSA #23 map for details.
- Properties within the Lincoln Avenue SSA includes all properties fronting Lincoln from Webster on the south to Diversey on the north, including some adjacent blocks. See the Lincoln Avenue SSA #35 map for complete details.
Rebate Amounts
For full façade improvements (which can include signage and/or awnings):
- Minimum work cost (total): $500
- Maximum rebate percentage: 50% of eligible costs
- Maximum rebate amount: $10,000
For signage and/or awning projects only:
- Minimum work cost (total): $500
- Maximum rebate percentage: 50% of eligible costs
- Maximum rebate amount: $5,000
These programs are first-come-first served, and a limited amount of rebate funds are available each year.
Eligible Improvements
Improvements must be visible from the public way and have a positive effect; such as awnings, signs and graphics, window and door replacement, tuck pointing, landscaping, flower boxes, exterior lighting
- Improvements must be compatible with city building zoning regulations
- Improvements must be done according to the Lincoln Park Guide to Good Storefront Design
- Improvements must receive appropriate permits
Ineligible Improvements
- Roofing
- Rear, side, alley or secondary improvements not visible from the public way
- New construction or additions
- On buildings less than 5 years old
- Interior improvements
Other Guidelines
- Applicants that have begun construction prior to project approval from the Façade Rebate Committee are ineligible to receive façade rebate funds.
- Any property owner or business having received a rebate through the Façade Rebate Program will not be eligible to apply for the same rebate within 36 months from the disbursement of the original rebate.
- Business owner must be able to show proof of city permits before construction begins
- Designs must meet with neighborhood signage and facade guidelines and best practices
How it works
Download the appropriate facade rebate program packet.
Submit your completed application and all required documentation, along with a $50 non-refundable application fee. For more information, contact the Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce at (773) 880-5200.
Eligible Improvements
- Only windows or doors damaged by vandalism are eligible.
- Replacement of broken glass.
- Repair/restoration of glass damaged with acid etching.
Repairs eligible for the rebate must be:
- Needed solely due to the occurrence of vandalism.
- Visible from the public right-of-way and have a positive impact on the building-front appearance.
- Completed in accordance with the specifications described in the approved application.
- Acid etching repairs must include the installation of anti-graffiti window film.
How It Works
Download and complete the appropriate facade rebate program packet:
To submit, contact the Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce at (773) 880-5200.
Eligible Projects
- Projects must include enhancements that will benefit the community by including the public-right-of-way.
- Project funding includes installation of the product, not ongoing maintenance or subscription costs.
- Examples of projects include:
- Security Cameras (at least one camera must face the public-right-of-way)
- Exterior lighting, including motion-sensor lighting
- All improvements must be compatible with city and building zoning regulations.
- Applicants are encouraged to register security cameras with the Chicago Office of Emergency Management and Communications’ (OEMC) Private Sector Camera Initiative. For more information, please contact OEMC at (312) 746-9111.
- All enhancements are subject to review by the Security Enhancement Rebate Committee. This committee is comprised of Commissioners from Clark Street SSA #23 and Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce staff.
- To maximize the number of projects and to equitably distribute projects that receive assistance, the Security Enhancement Rebate Committee may, at their sole discretion, award a rebate at an amount less than the allowable maximum.
Ineligible Projects
- Projects that have started prior to project approval
- Projects that do not include a public-right-of-way component (e.g., security camera only installed in the interior of a building)
How it Works
Download the appropriate Security Enhancement Rebate Program packet
- Lincoln Avenue SSA Security Enhancement Rebate Program
- Clark Street SSA Security Enhancement Rebate Program
To submit, contact the Lincoln Park Chamber of Commerce at (773) 880-5200.
Need inspiration for your new façade?
Download the Lincoln Park Guide to Good Storefront Design for ideas and guidelines for your project.
PLEASE NOTE: You must apply for the Façade Enhancement and Signage Rebate and the Safety Enhancement Rebate before beginning any improvements, construction or installation. Applicants that have begun or completed construction prior to project approval are ineligible to receive rebate funds.
Questions?
Please contact us, we’re happy to walk you through the program details and application process.
