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San Bernardino Unveils Business Facade Enhancement Program

Kim Anthony • August 23, 2024

San Bernardino Allocates $1 Million to Support Local Businesses with Facade Improvement Grants

Starting Monday, August 26, the City of San Bernardino will begin accepting applications for the "Paintbrush Program," a new initiative aimed at revitalizing commercial corridors by providing grants ranging from $10,000 to $20,000 to local businesses for facade improvements.

The program covers a variety of enhancements such as new exterior signs, awnings, canopies, fresh paint, stucco, tile, brick repairs, paving, outdoor lighting, windows, architectural details, landscaping, irrigation, and even fountains.

"This is a great opportunity to beautify our commercial corridors while helping local business owners invest in their properties," said San Bernardino Economic Development Director Ken Chapa.

Funded with $1 million from the American Rescue Plan, the program will operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Businesses that opened before March 2020 can receive up to $20,000, while those that opened after that date are eligible for up to $10,000. Participants must have a valid City of San Bernardino business license and complete a mentoring session with the Small Business Development Center.

All improvements must enhance the exterior appearance of the business and be visible from the street. Eligible businesses are located along the following corridors:

  • Downtown San Bernardino

  • Mt. Vernon Avenue (Highland Ave. to Mill St.)

  • E Street (30th St. to Mill St.)

  • Waterman Avenue (Highland Ave. to Mill St.)


  • 40th Street/E Street (Little Mountain Dr. to 31st St.)

  • Highland Avenue (Macy St. to Mt. Vernon Ave.)

  • Highland Avenue (Victoria Ave. to Boulder Ave.)

  • 5th Street (Rancho Ave. to Victoria Ave.)

  • Base Line Street (Meridian Ave. to Mt. Vernon Ave.)

  • Base Line Street (215 Freeway to Victoria Ave.)

  • Redlands Boulevard (Waterman Ave. to Gage Canal)

For more information, including how to apply, visit www.SBCity.org/PaintbrushProgram. For questions, contact the Economic Development Department at (909) 384-5366 or email EconDev@SBCity.org.

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