NEW IBERIA, La. --- New Iberia Main Street Program is soliciting Main Street Restoration Grant (RIG) applications from downtown commercial building and/or business owners.

The Louisiana Main Street program offers grants ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 which require a dollar-for-dollar cash match by the recipient. In-kind services do not qualify for the match, and work cannot begin until you are notified of a grant award.

To be eligible, a building must be located within the New Iberia Commercial Historic District, be at least 50 years old, and used for commercial purposes. In addition, the proposed work will be approved by the local Historic District Commission, and the Louisiana Main Street office, while also conforming to the guidelines set forth by the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation.

Please contact the New Iberia Main Street office at (337) 369-2330 or jbraud@cityofnewiberia.com to determine the following:

• If the building was located within the boundaries of the Main Street district as of December 31 of the calendar year preceding the grant application deadline.
• If the project requires a “Certificate of Appropriateness” from the New Iberia Historic District Commission, the procedure and date of the meeting.

Paper applications will not be accepted. Applications will only be accepted through the “Submittable” on-line grant application platform once the Main Street Director has determined eligibility. At that time, you will then be provided submission instructions and guideline requirements.

The application period is now open with an application deadline of 5 p.m. on Fri., July 28. The New Iberia Historic District Commission will meet on Monday, July 17, at New Iberia City Hall, 3rd floor in the Council Chambers at 5:30 p.m. to review and issue “Certificates of Appropriateness” on applicant projects that qualify. Grant-funded project work must be completed by April 30, 2024, to receive grant payment.

For more information, contact Jane Braud at (337) 369-2330 or by email.