An initiative to spruce up Fort Wayne business fronts has had some positive results.

The city’s Community Development Director, Mary Tyndall, tells WOWO News the Commercial Facade Grant program has helped a number of businesses improve their looks since it launched in 2008.

“We’ve completed more than 80 projects, and they’re all local businesses, they’re all located in the core of the city, in places that are heavily traveled,” Tyndall says.

She adds that the grants have made communities better overall:

“They make the businesses look better, which makes people want to frequent the businesses more often, and many times we learn that those projects encourage other businesses and nearby homeowners to do makeovers of their own.”

Applications for the 2017 iteration of the program are now being accepted. To apply, dial 311 or email Lindsey.Maksim@cityoffortwayne.org.

The latest recipient, Laycoff’s Tavern, received a $20,000 matching grant to improve the look of the restaurant exterior. A “before and after” photo can be seen above.