Improvement Grants Set to Enhance Anchorage's Building Exteriors and Public Spaces (named 'Beyond the Beige')
In a bold move to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the city and support local businesses, Anchorage Mayor Suzanne LaFrance announced $100,000 in grants for five projects as part of a new municipal arts initiative called Beyond the Beige.
The initiative, primarily funding nonprofits, aims to bring energy to the streets, support local artists, and attract people to Downtown. One of the key projects under this initiative is the creation of an outdoor gallery for forty artworks at Block 41, the former site of the Fourth Avenue Theatre. Peach Holdings, property owners of Block 41, received a grant of $10,000 for this venture.
Meanwhile, the Anchorage Park Foundation received $30,000 to create open-air art experiences at Tikishla Park and Kiwanis Fish Creek Park. Public art, according to Mike Robbins, brings life to streets, supports local artists, and encourages foot traffic to small businesses.
A notable project under the Beyond the Beige program is the "Welcome to Anchorage" mural that will adorn the facade of The Guesthouse, a city-owned low-income housing. The Northeast Community Council also received a grant of $12,000 for sculpted animal-shaped bike racks.
For business and building owners, the Great Streets program offers a viable solution to improve their facades. This program, administered in cooperation with the Anchorage Community Development Authority (ACDA), allows a business owner to borrow up to $25,000 per unit at 5 percent interest with up to sixty months (or five years) of low monthly payments. Notably, The McKinley Tower Apartments received a loan two years ago, and the grant completes the other half of the intended improvements.
The McKay Building, near Downtown Anchorage, will also receive a mural to brighten its facade. The mural, titled "Raven Dreams of a Salmon Return", is designed by muralist Crystal Worl. The ACDA also facilitates the Great Streets loans.
Business and building owners can combine funding to perform intended facade improvements with the Great Streets program. Improving storefronts was the top-ranked recommendation of the Project Anchorage Task Force during the previous administration. The mayor, Suzanne LaFrance, is credited with extending this idea.
The committee for the awarded projects includes Robbins, ACDA staff and board members, staff from the mayor's office, and the Municipal Arts Advisory Commission. The Great Streets program remains open to applications for businesses and nonprofits looking to revitalize their properties.
In conclusion, the Beyond the Beige program and the Great Streets program are significant steps towards revitalizing Anchorage's urban landscape, supporting local artists, and boosting small businesses. These initiatives are set to make Anchorage a more vibrant and attractive city for residents and visitors alike.
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