Community Trees Grant ProgramEstablished in 2005, the Community Trees Grant Program is designed to provide technical and financial assistance to cities, counties and non-profit organizations seeking to increase the number and diversity of trees in their communities. The grant provides matching funds to purchase trees for community-based plantings in parks, public gathering places and community gateways. The program is a reimbursement grant that requires a one-to-one match. H-GAC will provide technical assistance, but it is necessary for applicants to solicit volunteers to carry out the tree plantings. Many use volunteer time as an in-kind match contribution. A two-year maintenance plan will be provided, and the applicant must agree to follow it the entire two years. If a tree is removed or dies within this two-year period, the applicant is responsible for replacing that tree. | | 
Program Overview (PDF) 55K
Grant Application (PDF) 546K
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Downtown Public Spaces Grants
The Downtown Public Spaces Grants are designed to help municipalities, counties, and non-profit organizations enhance public spaces such as gateways, parks, waterfronts and business districts. Eligible enhancements must be part of a plan or strategy to improve the area to stimulate reinvestment and commercial activity, to restore and preserve the historic character of the community and to improve the appearance of downtown and gateway areas.Since 2006, grants totaling more than $500,000 have been awarded for 33 projects, including improving streetscapes, replacing sidewalks, installing signage, restoring historic facades, planting trees and creating public parks.
This matching grant program funds up to 50 percent of the estimated cost of the improvement project with a maximum award of $25,000 per project. Projects must be located on public land, and grant funds must be used for capital expenditures, not planning or labor. The grant application period is open, with funds allocated each June and December.
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The City of Dayton, in partnership with the Chamber of Commerce and Dayton Community Development Department, is completing a community park adjacent to City Hall. H-GAC awarded a $25,000 grant to help offset the cost of this project, estimated at $58,000. The pocket park includes paved walkways, a living Christmas tree and a covered gazebo for hosting events. This project is scheduled for completion in Fall 2009.
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The Plaza Theatre, Inc., a non-profit organization, worked to restore the historic neon marquee on the Plaza Theatre in Wharton as part of their renovations to the local landmark. Located across the street from the Wharton County Courthouse, the theatre is a key feature of the city’s historic downtown district. Several productions were staged at the theatre as part of fund raising efforts for the project which has enhanced the downtown experience for local residents and visitors.
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The Walker County Criminal District Attorney’s Office is housed in a 1931-era building set in the heart of downtown Huntsville.
This beautiful building, constructed in the Italian Renaissance Revival style, was in need of external repairs, especially large arched windows that had substantial wood damage. The windows have been restored to their original splendor on this historically significant building located on the downtown square and major highway thoroughfare. |