Special by Lindsay Hajek, assistant director of Main Street and Destination Seguin
(Seguin) – The “Fix-It” Facade grant program is helping downtown businesses improve their buildings. By providing matching funds for exterior upgrades, the program supports property owners in enhancing their buildings while preserving their historic character.
At the January 6th Seguin City Council meeting, funding was approved for three projects, representing a total public investment of $23,400.
1.The Magnolia Hotel, 203 S. Crockett Street – A $40,000 project to reconstruct the building’s original second-floor wood balcony on the primary facade. The grant will cover 50 percent of the costs, up to $10,000.
2. Robert Raetzsch Attorney Office, 100 S. Austin Street – A $6,800 project to repair and replace existing frames and windows above the awning. The grant will cover 50 percent of the costs, up to $3,400.
3. The Palace Theater, 314 S. Austin Street – A $20,000 project to clean and repaint the facade, repair the cracked glass entry door, and re-tile the entryway. The grant will cover 50 percent of the costs, up to $10,000.
The “Fix-It” facade grants cover a wide range of exterior improvements, including façade restoration, painting, window and door repairs, awnings, lighting, and other enhancements. By offsetting the costs of these projects, the program encourages downtown property owners to invest in their buildings while maintaining the distinctive charm and heritage.
“The “Fix-It” facade grant program has played a key role in downtown revitalization since they were started in 1998. The Main Street Advisory Board is thrilled to be able to assist with the preservation of our historic downtown and this year’s projects will be very exciting to see,” said Blaire Friar, director of Destination Seguin.
Downtown businesses and property owners are encouraged to begin planning building mimprovement projects and submit applications to take advantage of this opportunity. Seguin’s Main Street Program is now accepting applications for the second round of the FY 2026 funding cycle. Applications are due by 5 p.m. on Friday, February 13, 2026. Each year, the Seguin Main Street Program opens a new round of
“Fix-It” facade grant funding at the start of the fiscal year in October.
For more information and to apply, visit: https://www.seguintexas.gov/885/Fix-It-Facade-Grant