Please describe the proposed work: list the current condition of the building and specific project plans ( such as what materials or portions of the building will be replaced / repaired).

Facade improvements (brick repointing, cornice restoration, vinyl siding removal, etc.)

Storefront Improvements (new signage, new awning, window and lighting replacement, etc.)

Commercial Interior

Residential Interior

Estimated Total Project Budget: *

Anticipated Start Date: *

YYYY

Project Architect:

*The Pitkin Avenue BID can provide design assistance for your project. Please contact us if you wish to receive assistance in ﬁnding an architect. The BID will provide as much assistance as possible with improving your building or storefront.

Architect’s Phone:

Architect’s Email:

APPLICANT CONSENT AGREEMENT

I commit to complete the above mentioned project within six months of project initiation. I understand that I am obligated to comply with any applicable federal, state, and local regulations and to obtain all necessary approval and permits from government agencies, including the New York City Department of Buildings (DOB). I release the City, the New York State Housing Trust Fund Corporation (HTFC), and the Pitkin Avenue District Management Association, Inc. (the Pitkin Avenue BID) from any and all claims arising from this project. I understand that the grant is awarded as a reimbursement for eligible project expenses following the satis-factory completion of the project and upon receipt of proof of payment (checks or credit payment only - NO CASH PAYMENTS). Project’s that are not completed in a manner consistent with the agreed upon scope of work will not be eligible for reimbursement. I further understand that the maximum grant amount is $50,000 per building and that the grant can only cover up to 75% of the project’s total eligible cost . The grant award is subject to the terms and conditions of the contract that the Pitkin Avenue BID has entered with HTFC. I have read the Pitkin Avenue BID’s grant “design guidelines” and “selection guidelines.” If selected, I agree to follow the outlined grant process, completing work that is keeping with the Pitkin Avenue BID’s guidelines and executed as specified in the contract between the applicant and the Pitkin Avenue BID. I will request the Pitkin Avenue BID ‘s approval prior to modifying the project scope or specifications.

Applicant’s Signature *

Date *

YYYY

SUBMIT COMPLETED APPLICATIONS AND ATTACHMENTS TO THE BID OFFICE AT: 1572 Pitkin Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11212 (Office located on 2nd floor of Shopper’s World) Questions? Contact Jesse Gericke at 603.769.0190, or email jesse@pitkinavenue.nyc

LIST OF REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

The following is a checklist for all documents that MUST accompany all applications submitted to the BID for pre-approval.

A Copy of the Deed* for Property Owners OR a Copy of the Lease for merchant applicants.

Initialed statement of agreement to abide to the Pitkin Avenue BID “Design Guidelines and Project Selection Guidelines.” (see attached copy)

Copy of Signed Letter from Property Owners endorsing the project (for merchant applicants only)

FINAL APPROVAL

The following is a list of documents required for the final approval stage, conducted by the BID’s Project Se-lection Committee. These documents are NOT required for pre-approval, but are listed here in the event your project seeks final approval.

Detailed Scope of Project (Include a detailed summary of all work to be completed and a timeline for completion.)

Project Budget & Financing Plan (Before final approval, the BID Office must be provided copies of at least 2 estimates for all work that is to be completed. In addition, a financing plan must be submitted to ensure the BID that all work will be able to be completed. The BID will provide applicant with a list of approved contractors.)

Property Release Form (Gives New York State Housing Trust Fund Corp (HTFC) the unrestricted right to use any photographs taken of the property included in the project scope.)

Thank you!

Design Guidelines & Selection Guidelines

APPLICANTS:

Review the following Design and Selection Guidelines. Initial next to each guideline and submit initialed copy with your application.

DESIGN GUIDELINES

The purpose of the design guidelines are to develop consistent standards for all grant-funded projects. The guidelines are not intended to tell you what should be repaired and what should be replaced. Those decisions should be made after consultation with qualified professionals. You may contact the BID for a list of recommended architects, contractors, and vendors with experience in doing restoration work of this style.

1. Proposed projects should be guided by historic photos. These photos can be found at the Mu-nicipal Archives* and can help you to identify key architectural components that will generate ideas for potential improvements. It is not required to follow all the details in the photos.

2. Successful storefront improvements will accomplish the following:

- Promote commercial activity within your property and along Pitkin Avenue - Preserve unique architectural features and historic features of your building - Adhere to NYC Small Business Service’s Storefront Improvements: A guide for Neighborhood Commercial Districts

3. Improvements to the building should ensure long-term benefits to the building and commercial district. All work should be performed by licensed professionals with experience using the materials involved in your project (wood, brick, metal, cast iron, etc.).

4. New signage must follow the Pitkin Avenue Sign Code (See page 3 for sign code). All projects must remedy any existing building code violations.

5. All new security gates must be open-grid style (70% open) and comply with NYC law.

*The Pitkin Avenue BID can assist with finding your building’s Municipal Archives tax lot photos.

PROJECT SELECTION GUIDELINES

Projects will be selected by the BID’s Project Selection Committee, and decisions will be based on the project’s adherence to the program’s mission and it’s design guidelines. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis, so the sooner you apply the better your chances are for approval. The committee will use the following guidelines in evaluating your project:

1. Preference will be given to projects that will have the greatest potential to positively impact the Pitkin Avenue district.

2. Preference will be given to projects that fill a vacant space or assist in retaining a BID legacy business.*

3. Preference will be given to projects that create new upper floor residential units.**

4. The BID will assess applicant’s ability to complete the proposed project. Applicants will be re-quired to present a project budget and financing plan that outlines how the project will be funded.

5. Projects that address the following will be preferred:

- Correct existing code violations and resolve all health and safety concerns - Restore buildings or retail space that is in danger of razing

6. The BID will distribute funds as fairly as possible. One property shall not receive more than one grant until the BID has had time to review other projects.

7. Only applicants willing to sign a maintenance agreement will be eligible for a grant. The maintenance agreement, filed with County Clerk’s Office of Kings County, requires all improvements be maintained for a minimum of five (5) years. Improvements that are altered or removed during this period shall be paid back on a pro-rated basis to the Main Street Program. The amount to be returned will be determined by reducing the original grant by one-fifth (20%) for each year the applicant was in compliance with the agreement.

Applicant’s Signature

Date

YYYY

*To be considered a “Legacy Business” the business must be at least 30 years old and contributed to Brownsville’s history. Legacy businesses must retain their business’ name, brand and business type (retail category). **Residential units must impose NYMS rent limits for Kings County for a period of 5 years.

Thank you!

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Brooklyn, NY 11212
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