https://archive.triblive.com/local/westmoreland/latrobe-facade-revitalization-effort-receives-50k-boost-from-state/
Latrobe facade revitalization effort receives $50K boost from state
Evan R. Sanders | Tribune-Review
Numerous facade renovations have been completed in Latrobe, including to Rose Style Shoppe on Ligonier Street.
Latrobe is tapping state revitalization funds to continue a successful program that helps owners spruce up the exteriors of downtown buildings.
Gov. Tom Wolf on Tuesday announced approval of $3.3 million in Keystone Communities funding for 15 projects across the state, including $50,000 that will help the Latrobe Community Revitalization Program provide matching grants for about 10 facade rehabilitation projects.
Jarod Trunzo, executive director of the Latrobe program, said its facade effort has been critical to improving Latrobe's downtown business district. With past state funding, the program assisted in 10 facade upgrades. The most recent upgrade was at the Danceland building at Depot and Jefferson streets, which now features murals that reflect its legacy as a center for musical entertainment.
“That was really a special building to be historically preserved,” Trunzo said.
Other facade funding recipients include the Latrobe Masonic Lodge building; the Hotel Loyal restaurant and bar; the Rose Style Shoppe women's clothing store; and the former Troutman's department store, now home to medical offices.
The Dollar General store received a brighter sign and a refreshed brick facade on the building's upper stories.
“The Dollar General was getting 50 customers a day,” Trunzo said. “That number doubled soon after the facade was complete and has gone on to triple now.”
“It's the outside of your building that sends a message,” Trunzo said, adding that exterior visual appeal is a major influence on “whether you're going to enter that business or not.”
Trunzo said his program will provide a match of as much as $5,000 per street-facing facade of an eligible building, with the owner financing the rest.
“You usually get a much greater match than 50 percent,” Trunzo said of the private investment the grants leverage. “The business usually goes well beyond that.”
The grant is provided to the owner as a reimbursement once the work is complete.
Trunzo's office provides grant recipients with free design assistance.
Jeff Himler is a Tribune-Review staff writer. Reach him at 724-836-6622 or jhimler@tribweb.com.
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