WORCESTER – The Worcester Pleasant Street Transformative Development Initiative (TDI) Partnership received $125,000 from MassDevelopment’s Transformative Development Initiative Local Program.
The program seeks to enhance and revitalize the aesthetics of the Pleasant St. neighborhood commercial district through financial support to property and business owners to offset their investment costs for storefront improvement projects. The program also supports business relocation assistance to the corridor, and the launch of a branding initiative in the district
Storefront improvement projects can receive up to $20,000 in reimbursement, with the amount determined by a review committee. This funding is reserverd for businesses located on Pleasant Street between Main Street and Park Avenue.
The Pleasant Street TDI expands on a similar program funded by MassDevelopment in 2022 that supported facade improvements, increased lighting, and window repair.
“There is a need for walkability, connectivity, and comfortability patronizing the neighborhood for the individual experience of the residents and new visitors,” said Chris Bettencourt, property and business owner of The Raven and Pleasant St. TDI Partner. “An attractive streetscape is key in positively affecting one’s sense of place and this program is a tool in achieving that.”
Applications are due by April 22. Contact Ivette Olmeda at [email protected] or Vaske Gjino at [email protected] for more information.
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