Luverne EDA approves Quality Printing facade improvement project

Another downtown business has been approved for Luverne’s Historic Façade Improvement Program.
The program offers free technical assistance for architectural design services as well as financial assistance in the form of loans and grants.
On Monday the Luverne Economic Development Authority approved an application from Mark and Annie Opitz for a facade improvement of their Quality Printing business at 116 W. Main St.
The project includes removing the coverings from the two columns, removing the wooden shakes from the upper story, replacing all four upper story windows, resurfacing the columns and upper story (tuck-pointing original brick or resurfacing), replacing the storefront window, repairing the concrete entrance and improving signage.
The project is estimated to cost $20,710, and the Opitzes are applying for a grant in the amount of $7,250 (35 percent of the project cost) and a loan in the amount of $7,250 (35 percent of project cost) at a rate of 2 percent for a five-year term.
The business owners will be responsible for the remaining 30 percent of the project cost, $6,210.
Due to the unknown condition of the original brickwork, any change orders to the project will be handled through the building official as the project progresses.
 
Background
The idea behind the Historic Façade Improvement Program is to support the revitalization of Main Street and downtown Luverne while restoring buildings as closely as possible to their historic appearance from 1878-1948.
The city covers architectural costs for a professional design proposal to ensure projects align with the goal of a historic Main Street.
Funding provided through the program can be used for facade materials, facade construction, awnings, signage and lighting.
Main Street Financial was one of the first businesses to complete a project last year through the program, and the Loopy’s storefront and Grand Prairie Events Center were improved earlier this year.
Last month the LEDA approved Historic Façade Improvements for W-2 Quality Meats and Redeemed Remnants.
Other local businesses working on façade improvements and creative logo designs include Medi Spa, Salon 75, Restoration Alley, Brandenburg Gallery, Luverne Counseling and Luverne Street Music.