SHAFTER, Calif. (KERO) — The city of Shafter has launched a new downtown facade grant program offering up to $10,000 to help business owners improve their storefronts and beautify the downtown area.

The Downtown Facade Grant Program provides 50% reimbursement of eligible expenses, up to $10,000, for businesses located within the triangle formed by Shafter Avenue, Central Valley Highway, and Lerdo Highway. The program operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

"On the first day that it was available, we had two people take out applications, and one actually returned the application," said David Franz, Shafter's Community Service Director.

The grant requires improvements that are visible from the public right-of-way and enhance the appearance of downtown streets.

"It needs to be somet

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