Golden Scissors Receives Façade Improvement Grant

Lansdale’s Economic Development Committee (EDC) presented their initial Façade Improvement Grant to Golden Scissors owner Rita Brown on Tuesday morning. As she finished a haircut for a longtime client, she was presented a check for $5,000 from EDC Chairwoman Carrie Hawkins-Charlton. 

“We’re so happy to have this opportunity,” Brown said, posing for a photo outside her newly upgraded building. “We are also happy that the borough is helping improve the look of town.”

The Façade Improvement Program awards up to 50 percent of expenses up to $10,000—or a maximum $5000 grant—to property and/or business owners. 

“The Economic Development Committee has a vision of a vibrant, visually appealing downtown and this program goes a long way to help offset the financial burden businesses bear when making improvements,” said Hawkins-Charlton. 

In addition to helping with funding, the program looks to stimulate private investment in the borough while enhancing the visual appeal of businesses and the borough as a whole.

Former EDC Chairman and current code enforcement liaison to the Façade Improvement Grant program Jason Van Dame was also on hand for the check presentation. 

“This program started as a way to encourage investment in our business district and improvements in our downtown,” said Van Dame. “Now it has become a way for the borough to facilitate relationships with our business community.” 

The EDC has received five applications for the program to date, and has approved grants for three businesses including Golden Scissors, Borneman Remodeling and Boardroom Spirits. They are currently reviewing two additional applications. 

For a business owner who spends her days transforming clients, Brown certainly knows how to make an impact.  With the addition of new exterior lighting, updated signage and a freshly stuccoed building, Golden Scissors shines on Main Street.

“This project is what the Borough’s Façade Improvement Grants were designed for,” said John Ernst, Lansdale Borough Manager. “We hope Rita’s success opens doors for the program to other Borough businesses.”