Downtown in Wakefield has been slated for an upgrade by several businesses.
The downtown revitalization project has come full-circle with businesses taking advantage of the funds presented.
The businesses downtown are eligible for a forgivable 85% loan up to $75,000 for facade improvements.
One business owner taking advantage of the offering is Brian Miller, owner of Miller Building Supply on Main Street.
"This is something I have been wanting to do," Miller said. "I'm not sure the windows have been upgraded since 1928 when the place was built."
Miller replaced the windows with new windows and is in the process of putting his storefront back to the old days.
"I am kind of leaning towards making the front look like it used to look," Miller said. "I like the old style."
Store owners are required to pay 15% of the total project costs while the Community Revitalization Authority will pay up to $500 for property owners to have an architect provide a rendering of the improvements.
Money is still available and property owners must fill out an application, provide estimates for the work to be completed and a rendering of the potential improvements.
The CRA would need to approve the application.
"It has been delightful to work with property owners and share in their excitement," economic developer Megan Weaver said. "This is what this program is all about and we need to take advantage of the dollars and use them here in Wakefield as much as possible."
Several businesses have followed Weaver's lead for a lot of different reasons.
The list of the area businesses projects include:
Nick's Wood Shop-Replace three windows on the south side of the building; new door and a fresh coat of paint.
Jumpin' Java House (new business) - new paint.
NEN Ammo and 226 Salon - New paint, signage and awning.
Lazy Acres Decor & Floral - Roof repair, new front entrance, new lighting.
Miller Building Supply - New front windows, new signage, new exterior lighting, new tile entrance.
ReDress Formals and the Post Office - Post Office will have windows replaced and ReDressed will have glass block removed and a full glass window installed.
Tienda Mexicanan - Will have new paint and brick repair.
"We have several other property owners working with the architect and gathering information to submit an application," Weaver said.