Thursday, January 17, 2013

Texas Grants For Old Houses

Old houses in the Lone Star State could qualify for historic preservation grants.


Those living in older houses in Texas, or who want to fix up an old house, may qualify for historic preservation or rehabilitation grants. Houses in land-marked districts or with significant historical value or architecture are most likely to receive funding. Grants are available from federal, state and local sources. Historical houses in danger of being razed may receive emergency funding from agencies. Does this Spark an idea?


Texas Historical Commission


The Texas Historical Commission offers certified local government grants to municipalities and county agencies with properties listed in the National Register of Historic Places or a National Register Historic District. Grants include funding for restoration or rehabilitation of these sites. These are matching grants, which require a 50/50 ratio for all costs. Federal funding does not qualify for matching grants, with the exception of Community Development Block Grants. The Texas Historical Commission also oversees the Texas Preservation Trust Fund Grant Program, which may fund the restoration of old houses if they have received historic designation.


Texas Historical Commission


1511 Colorado


Austin, TX 78701


512-463-6100


thc.state.tx.us


Grapevine


The city of Grapevine contains two historic districts. The Grapevine Township Revitalization Program, Inc. created by the governing body, is a non-profit organization assisting with architectural preservation of dwellings in the historic districts. The Grapevine city council has authorized a matching-grant program for renovation of exteriors of the districts' historic houses. The GRTP also aids in preserving worthy houses in danger of demolition. The GRTP rehabilitation program accepts donations of such homes and moves them within the township limits. After rehabbing, the house is sold for residential purposes.


City of Grapevine


PO Box 95104


Grapevine, Texas 76099


817-410-3000


grapevinetexas.gov


San Antonio Conservation Society


The San Antonio Conservation Society offers renovation and rehabilitation grants for residential properties a minimum of half a century old. Applicants must submit digital images of their house on the application form. They must supply a history of the building, including any landmark designation. Endangered properties receive priority. Grant money cannot be used for restoration projects that have already commenced, and funds must be used within one year. Architects and contractors must receive San Antonio Conservation Society approval before beginning work.


San Antonio Conservation Society


107 King William Street


San Antonio, TX 78204


210-224-6163


saconservation.org







Tags: Antonio Conservation, Antonio Conservation Society, Conservation Society, Historical Commission, Texas Historical, Texas Historical Commission, districts Grapevine