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1. My property has historical significance but it is not listed as a City Landmark or on the National Register of Historic Places. Am I eligible for this grant?

No, only listed properties are eligible for this grant. HOWEVER, you could be eligible if your property becomes listed as a City Landmark or on the National Register. There are countless properties in Eugene that are eligible for listing, and yours could be one of them. To learn more about your property’s historic status and the listing process, contact Althea Sullivan, Senior Planner, at asullivan@eugene-or.gov, or by phone at 541-682-5485.

2. Why does the award require a dollar-for-dollar match from the property owner?

The City wants to prioritize rehabilitation projects that have the greatest positive impact on historic properties. While this grant provides financial help, we believe that projects can be more successful when the owner themselves is financially committed.

3. If my project is not selected, can I apply again?

Most certainly. If there are a lot of applications we unfortunately expect that some great projects will not be awarded. We want to make sure these projects have another chance during the next award cycle.

4. If my project is selected, can I apply again during the next award cycle for a different project on the same property?

Yes, but you have to wait at least 1 year before applying again.

5. How do I improve the chances that my project will be awarded?

Staff and the Historic Review Board will be looking at four criteria when awarding projects. They are as follows:
a) Project Value – To what extent does the project improve the existing structure?
b) Project Design – Is the design tasteful and consistent with the structure’s original appearance?
c) Project Feasibility – Is the project feasible given the proposed budget and timeline?
d) Significance / Integrity of Existing Structure – Does the structure still have some historical significance, or has it been negatively impacted beyond repair?

6. Are there rules regarding the project budget?

There is no minimum or maximum budget required for participation in this program. For example, if your project costs $500, you could request a $250 award from the city, and then pay the additional $250 out of pocket. If your project costs $5,000, you could request $1,000 from the city and cover the rest out of pocket. Regardless, please make sure that you have finances secured to pay for the project – awards are not distributed until after the project is 100% complete.

7. If my project is selected and I successfully complete it, how do I collect the award money?

After projects are completed the City will inspect the property to ensure the project was successful. Thereafter, the City will write a check to the property owner. The check can be mailed or picked up at the City of Eugene Planning and Development Department located in the Atrium Building at 99 West 10th Avenue, Eugene, OR 97401.

8. Why did the City initiate this program?

The City and Historic Review Board believe there should be more incentives for owners of historically significant properties. This program will award cash to property owners that can be used to improve and/or repair their historic structure. Not only will this program help to improve the City’s existing historic structures, but it will hopefully encourage others to consider listing their property as a historic resource so that they can be eligible to participate.

9. If a friend or family member owns a historic property, can I fill out this application and help them complete the project?

Yes, as long as you have permission and the owner signs the application form.