Submit the application here or email documents directly to Maria Saxton (msaxton@cliftonforgeva.gov).

*Please submit any questions to Maria Saxton (msaxton@cliftonforgeva.gov) no later than August 20th, 2026.*

Issue Date: July 15^th, 2026

1. INTRODUCTION

The Town of Clifton Forge is seeking applications from eligible commercial property owners and business tenants for participation in the Downtown Façade Improvement Grant Program.

This program is intended to support exterior improvements to commercial buildings within Downtown Clifton Forge that enhance the appearance, functionality, historic character, and economic vitality of the downtown district.

The program will provide reimbursement grants of up to $10,000 per project for eligible façade improvements. A 100% dollar-for-dollar private match is required. The Town anticipates funding approximately eight projects through this initiative.

2. PROGRAM PURPOSE

The Downtown Façade Improvement Grant Program is intended to:

• Encourage investment in Downtown Clifton Forge
• Improve commercial building appearance and curb appeal
• Preserve and restore historic architectural features
• Support small businesses and downtown property owners
• Enhance walkability and visitor experience
• Strengthen economic development efforts
• Support implementation of the Town’s Comprehensive Plan and Community & Economic Development Strategic Plan

3. FUNDING STRUCTURE

Applicants must demonstrate the ability to provide matching funds equal to or greater than the requested grant amount.

Grant awards will be distributed on a reimbursement basis following project completion and submission of all required documentation.

4. ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS

Eligible applicants include:

• Commercial property owners
• Mixed-use property owners
• Business tenants with written authorization from the property owner
• Nonprofit organizations occupying eligible commercial buildings

Applicants must:

• Be located within the designated Downtown Clifton Forge commercial district
• Be current on Town taxes, fees, and utility payments
• Obtain all required permits and approvals
• Agree to maintain completed improvements for a minimum period of five (5) years

5. ELIGIBLE PROJECTS

Eligible improvements may include, but are not limited to:

Exterior Rehabilitation of Street-Facing Façade(s)

• Masonry repair and repointing
• Exterior painting
• Cleaning or restoration of historic materials
• Removal of inappropriate façade coverings

Storefront Improvements

• Replacement or restoration of storefront systems
• Window and door repair or replacement
• Display window improvements
• Transom restoration

Architectural Features

• Cornice restoration
• Decorative trim repair
• Historic detailing
• Awnings and canopies

Accessibility Improvements

• Improved building entrances
• ADA-related façade improvements

Signage and Lighting

• Pedestrian-oriented signage
• Exterior architectural lighting
• Blade signs
• Gooseneck lighting

Professional Services  

• Architectural design services
• Engineering services directly related to façade improvements

6. INELIGIBLE PROJECTS

The following activities are not eligible for funding:

• Interior renovations
• Routine maintenance
• Roof replacement unrelated to façade visibility
• Landscaping not directly associated with façade improvements
• New building construction
• Temporary signage
• Equipment purchases
• Work completed prior to grant approval

7. DESIGN GUIDELINES

Projects should:

• Preserve and enhance the historic character of Downtown Clifton Forge
• Be compatible with surrounding architecture
• Utilize durable and high-quality materials
• Avoid covering or removing historic architectural features
• Comply with applicable zoning and building regulations

The Town reserves the right to require design modifications prior to approval.

8. APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS & REQUIREMENTS

To be considered, applications must be submitted electronically to:

Maria Saxton, Director of Planning & Community Development

Email: msaxton@cliftonforgeva.gov

Proposals will be accepted August 1^st, 2026 through September 1st, 2026.

Applicants must submit the following:

1. Project narrative and scope of work
2. Current photographs of the property
3. Concept drawings or renderings (if applicable)
4. Contractor estimates or quotes
5. Proof of matching funds
6. Property owner authorization (if applicant is a tenant)
7. Estimated project timeline

Incomplete applications may not be considered.

9. EVALUATION CRITERIA

Applications will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

Priority may be given to:

• Highly visible properties
• Historically significant structures
• Vacant or underutilized storefronts
• Projects leveraging additional investment beyond the required match
• Projects capable of completion within the required timeframe

10. SELECTION PROCESS

Applications will be reviewed by the Town of Clifton Forge.

The Town reserves the right to:

• Reject any or all applications
• Request additional information
• Award partial funding
• Modify funding allocations based on project scope and available funding

Selected applicants will be required to enter into a formal Performance Agreement with the Town of Clifton Forge prior to commencement of work or release of grant funding approval.

The Performance Agreement will establish:

• Approved scope of work
• Total grant award amount
• Required matching investment
• Project schedule and deadlines
• Reimbursement procedures
• Maintenance obligations
• Documentation requirements
• Compliance with applicable regulations and program requirements

Failure to comply with the Performance Agreement may result in forfeiture of grant funding.

11. PROJECT TIMELINE

Because funding must be fully obligated and expended within the current funding cycle, all awarded projects must be completed and all eligible project expenses incurred/submitted for reimbursement no later than December 15, 2026.

Applicants should demonstrate the ability to complete the proposed project within the required timeframe.

12. REIMBURSEMENT PROCESS

Grant funds will be distributed after:

1. Completion of approved work
2. Final inspection by the Town
3. Submission of:

• Paid invoices
• Proof of payment
• Final photographs
• Any required permits or approvals

The Town will reimburse eligible expenses up to the approved grant amount.

13. PUBLICITY AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Award recipients may be required to:

• Participate in promotional efforts
• Allow before-and-after photography
• Acknowledge Town support in public communications related to the project

Downtown Upper-Level Housing Feasibility Study & Preliminary Architecture/Engineering Reports (PER/PAR)

RFP Release: July 7, 2026

Town of Clifton Forge, Virginia

General:
The Town of Clifton Forge, Virginia (hereafter referred to as the TOWN) is seeking proposals from qualified firms (hereafter referred to as the FIRM) to complete a Downtown Upper-Level Housing Feasibility Study and Preliminary Architecture/Engineering Reports (PER/PAR).

The selected firm must be lawfully engaged in the practice of architecture, engineering, or related disciplines within the Commonwealth of Virginia.

This project will evaluate the feasibility of converting upper floors of existing downtown buildings into residential units and advance the two most viable buildings to preliminary design and cost estimation. The effort is funded through Virginia Housing’s Community Impact Grant (CIG) Planning Program.

Proposal Submission:
To be considered responsive, proposals must be submitted electronically to:
Maria Saxton, Director of Planning & Community Development
Email: msaxton@cliftonforgeva.gov
Email submissions must include the subject line: “Local Market Assessment Proposal.”

Proposals must be received no later than 5:00 PM on August 7, 2026.

Guidelines for Prospective Firm:
Firm must demonstrate the following:
- Relevant experience and expertise in conducting local housing market assessments.
- Qualified staff and technical capacity to meet project timelines and deliverables.
- A satisfactory performance record on similar past projects.

Project Timeline:
RFP Release: July 7, 2026
Questions Due: July 27, 2026
Proposals Due: August 7, 2026
Selection and Contract Execution: August - September 2026
Project Completion Deadline: No later than six months after contract execution

Conditions of the Request:
This RFP does not commit the Town to award a contract or to pay any costs incurred in the preparation of a response. The Town reserves the right to accept or reject any or all proposals, in part or in whole, and to cancel or amend this solicitation as needed in the best interest of the Town.

Scope of Services:
Task 1: Feasibility Study (Multiple Buildings)

The FIRM shall:
1) Develop a preliminary development program for each participating building (unit types and general layout concepts)
2) Identify physical constraints and opportunities for upper-level residential use
3) Prepare conceptual layout options (test fits)
4) Provide order-of-magnitude cost ranges for major construction components
5) Evaluate alternative development scenarios, as appropriate
6) Identify and recommend the two (2) most viable buildings for advancement

Task 2: Preliminary Architecture/Engineering Reports (PER/PAR) – Top 2 Buildings

For the two selected buildings, the FIRM shall:

1) Assess building and infrastructure conditions
2) Prepare preliminary building layouts and design concepts
3) Identify required renovations and infrastructure upgrades
4) Evaluate alternative design approaches, as applicable
5) Provide preliminary cost estimates

Task 3: Final Deliverables

The FIRM shall provide:
1) A concise final report summarizing feasibility findings and PER/PAR results
2) Supporting graphics and conceptual layouts
3) Clear recommendations and next steps for implementation

Contract & Payment Terms:
The Town will enter into a not-to-exceed (NTE) contract for $40,000.
All deliverables, data, and documentation produced under this contract shall become the property of the Town of Clifton Forge.

Evaluation Criteria:
Proposals will be evaluated based on:
- Qualifications and experience with similar projects
- Understanding of adaptive reuse and housing feasibility
- Clarity and feasibility of proposed approach and schedule
- Cost-effectiveness
- Capacity to complete the work on time and within budget

Contract Terms:
All disagreements or disputes arising from this agreement shall be resolved under the laws and jurisdiction of the Commonwealth of Virginia. The Town may terminate the contract for cause or convenience under the terms outlined in the final agreement. The selected firm must agree to indemnify and hold harmless the Town of Clifton Forge for all liabilities arising from its performance.

Proposal Requirements:
Please include the following in your proposal:
- Statement of qualifications and relevant experience
- Description of proposed methodology and project schedule
- Budget with itemized cost breakdown (not to exceed $40,000 total)
- Up to three references from similar past projects
- Resumes of key personnel

Redevelopment of 600 Main Street

Town of Clifton Forge, Virginia

Issue Date: Tuesday, June 30, 2026

Proposal Due Date: Friday, August 7^th at 12 pm

Introduction

The Town of Clifton Forge is seeking proposals from qualified individuals, businesses, nonprofit organizations, developers, and other interested entities for the acquisition and redevelopment of the property located at 600 Main Street, Clifton Forge, Virginia.

The Town's goal is to facilitate a catalytic redevelopment project that contributes to downtown revitalization, supports economic development, enhances quality of life, and creates an active, community-oriented destination at this prominent gateway location.

Preference will be given to proposals that provide a community-facing use, demonstrate long-term sustainability, and activate both the building and surrounding site.

The property will be conveyed to the selected proposer for $40,000, subject to the terms and conditions outlined herein.

Property Description

Property Address: 600 Main Street, Clifton Forge, Virginia

The property consists of an existing commercial building situated on a highly visible corner parcel at the eastern gateway to Downtown Clifton Forge. The site offers opportunities for adaptive reuse, business development, placemaking, and community activation.

The property includes two parcels (C23-1-7-6A) that includes the building and the front half of the vacant adjacent parcel between 600 and 608 Main Street, that includes a 12-ft no-build zone on the east boundary.

The Town encourages creative yet realistic redevelopment concepts that leverage both the building and the surrounding property to create an attractive and productive use that complements Downtown Clifton Forge.

Redevelopment Goals

The Town seeks proposals that:

• Promote economic development and private investment;
• Create a new destination or community asset;
• Support entrepreneurship and small business growth;
• Generate employment opportunities;
• Enhance the visual appearance of a key downtown gateway;
• Encourage public activity and engagement;
• Activate both the building and surrounding site;
• Demonstrate long-term operational and financial sustainability.

Preferred Uses

The Town encourages proposals that are appropriately scaled to the existing building and site. Potential uses may include, but are not limited to:

• Specialty retail or boutique businesses;
• Café, bakery,  or similar food service establishment;
• Artisan, maker, or craft production space with retail sales;
• Art gallery, studio, or creative workspace;
• Health, wellness, fitness, or personal service businesses;
• Educational, training, or workforce development space;
• Community gathering space, meeting venue, or nonprofit headquarters;
• Visitor information center or tourism-oriented business;
• Mixed-use concepts combining commercial space with outdoor programming or site amenities.

These examples are illustrative only and are not intended to limit the range of acceptable proposals.

Site Activation Expectations

Because of the property's prominent location and large site area, the Town is particularly interested in proposals that activate the surrounding property in addition to the building itself.

Examples may include:

• Outdoor seating or gathering areas;
• Pocket park or greenspace features;
• Public art installations;
• Event space for markets, performances, or community programming;
• Outdoor recreation amenities;
• Landscaping and placemaking improvements;
• Outdoor dining or entertainment areas;
• Other creative site enhancements that encourage public use and engagement.

Proposals that thoughtfully integrate both the building and site into a cohesive redevelopment vision will be viewed favorably.

Property Transfer and Redevelopment Requirements

The selected proposer will purchase the property for:

Purchase Price: $40,000

Prior to closing, the selected proposer shall enter into a Redevelopment Agreement with the Town of Clifton Forge outlining the approved project, redevelopment timeline, and performance requirements.

The selected proposer shall:

1. Acquire the property from the Town;
2. Secure all necessary permits and approvals;
3. Redevelop the property substantially in accordance with the approved proposal;
4. Commence substantial redevelopment activities within six (6) months of the property transfer date;
5. Have the proposed business, organization, or use fully operational within twelve (12) months of the property transfer date;
6. Operate the approved use continuously for a minimum period of two (2) years following commencement of operations;
7. Maintain the property in accordance with all applicable local, state, and federal regulations.

The redevelopment agreement may include additional performance milestones, reporting requirements, and other provisions necessary to ensure timely project completion and operation.

Redevelopment Milestones and Reversionary Interest

Because the Town's primary objective is the productive redevelopment and activation of the property, the selected proposer will be required to meet certain redevelopment milestones.

At a minimum, the selected proposer shall:

• Begin substantial redevelopment activities within six (6) months of the property transfer date;
• Demonstrate continued progress toward project completion;
• Have the approved project fully operational within twelve (12) months of the property transfer date;
• Maintain operation of the approved use for a minimum of two (2) years following opening.

The Town may require periodic progress updates and supporting documentation demonstrating advancement of the project.

Should the purchaser fail to commence redevelopment activities within six (6) months, fail to make reasonable progress toward completion, fail to have the approved use operational within twelve (12) months, or discontinue operations during the required two-year operating period without Town approval, the Town may exercise remedies established in the redevelopment agreement.

Such remedies may include, but are not limited to:

• Granting an extension for good cause shown;
• Repurchase of the property by the Town at the original purchase price;
• Reversion of ownership to the Town;
• Recovery of any incentives provided by the Town; or
• Other remedies deemed appropriate by the Town and outlined in the redevelopment agreement.

The Town recognizes that unforeseen circumstances may arise during project implementation and may consider reasonable extensions where substantial progress is being made and delays are beyond the purchaser's control.

By submitting a proposal, applicants acknowledge that these redevelopment milestones are material conditions of the property transfer.

Site Visits

Interested parties are strongly encouraged to visit the property prior to submitting a proposal.

To schedule a site visit, contact:

Maria Saxton (msaxton@cliftonforgeva.gov) and Chuck Unroe (cunroe@cliftonforgeva.gov).

Proposal Requirements

Proposals should include the following:

Applicant Information

• Name of individual, business, nonprofit, or organization;
• Primary contact person;
• Mailing address;
• Phone number;
• Email address.

Project Narrative

A detailed description of the proposed redevelopment, including:

• Intended use of the property;
• Description of how the project supports economic development;
• Community benefits;
• Description of how both the building and site will be utilized;
• Expected users, customers, or visitors;
• Long-term vision for the property.

Business Plan

Provide a business plan demonstrating the feasibility and sustainability of the proposed project, including:

• Organizational structure;
• Revenue model;
• Funding sources;
• Operational strategy;
• Market opportunity;
• Long-term sustainability.

Project Schedule

Provide a proposed implementation schedule identifying key milestones from acquisition through opening and operation.

Financial Capacity

Provide documentation demonstrating the ability to finance and complete the project, which may include:

• Proof of funds;
• Financing commitments;
• Letters of interest from lenders;
• Organizational financial statements; or
• Other evidence of financial capacity.

Optional Supporting Materials

The following materials are encouraged but not required:

• Conceptual floor plans;
• Site plans;
• Architectural renderings;
• Concept sketches;
• Letters of support.

Evaluation Criteria

Proposals will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

Preference will be given to proposals that:

• Support economic development and entrepreneurship;
• Create a community-facing destination;
• Utilize both the building and site;
• Demonstrate strong financial and operational viability;
• Enhance the appearance and activity of Downtown Clifton Forge;
• Present a clear and achievable path to project completion and operation.

Submission Instructions

Proposals must be submitted electronically in PDF format no later than 12:00 PM Eastern Time on FRIDAY, AUGUST 7^th, 2026.

Submit proposals to:

Maria Saxton (msaxton@cliftonforgeva.gov) and Chuck Unroe (cunroe@cliftonforgeva.gov).

Subject Line: 600 Main Street Redevelopment Proposal

Reservation of Rights

The Town of Clifton Forge reserves the right to:

• Reject any or all proposals;
• Request additional information;
• Conduct interviews with proposers;
• Negotiate modifications to any proposal;
• Select a proposal other than the highest purchase offer;
• Waive minor irregularities;
• Terminate the solicitation at any time.

Selection will be based upon the proposal determined to provide the greatest overall benefit to the Town of Clifton Forge and its residents.

The Town of Clifton Forge looks forward to receiving innovative proposals that transform 600 Main Street into a vibrant, productive, and community-oriented gateway destination for residents and visitors alike.