$100k to be invested in Tiffin

TIFFIN — A fresh coat of paint, a new roof, and even stained-glass restoration are all in store for downtown Tiffin buildings in 2025 thanks to the latest round of Façade Enhancement Grants. The City of Tiffin, thanks to a partnership with the Downtown Tiffin Main Street Program, has awarded $100,000 in grant funding to support exterior improvements for 15 commercial properties in the downtown historic district. The funding, which has already been fully allocated for the 2025 cycle, is part of an ongoing effort to preserve the city's architectural character while encouraging economic reinvestment. "It's incredible to see how the Facade Enhancement Program has brought new life to our historic downtown," Mayor Lee Wilkinson said. "With a more than 3 to 1 return on investment, we're not only restoring the charm of our buildings — we're strengthening the heart of our community." The program offers up to $10,000 per property in matching funds for approved exterior renovation projects. Since its launch in 2014, it has supported more than 120 projects, helping businesses make visible upgrades that often attract new customers and tenants. 2025 Grant Recipients This year's grants will fund a wide range of improvements, including roof replacements, window upgrades, painting, and architectural restoration: Breidenbach Painting, 12 S Monroe St. – Roof replacement Advanced Environmental Pest Solutions, 189 S Washington St. – Exterior staircase refurbishment The Watchtower, 154 S Washington St. – Window replacement Tiffin Boutique Hotel, 160 S Washington St. – Window restoration The Renaissance of Tiffin, 129 S Washington St. – Awning replacement Behm & Henry LLC, 185 S Washington St. – Window replacement Jolly's Drive In, 66/68 E Market St. – Window replacement Bailiwicks Coffee Company, 62 S Washington St. – Roof replacement Residence, 117/119 E Perry St. – Gutter and soffit replacement Tiffin Academy of Hair Design, 104 E Market St. – Wall restoration/replacement St. Joseph Catholic Church, 36 Melmore St. – Stained glass window repair Residence, 131 S Washington St. – Roof replacement KWEST Group LLC, 2–6 Sycamore St. – Exterior painting Residence, 95 S Monroe St. – Window restoration Supance and Howard, 84–90 S Washington St. – Roof replacement Business owners say the improvements will go a long way toward preserving their properties and keeping them functional and inviting for customers. "When I bought the building back in January 2020, I knew I would need to replace the roof in the next 3-5 years. Over the last five years, I have patched the roof and replaced ceiling tiles numerous times, so I am incredibly excited to receive a facade improvement grant this year," said Jess Wirth, owner of Bailiwicks Coffee Company. Wirth continued, saying that the building is over 80 years old, and through the grant funding she has been awarded, she will be able to continue to preserve the historic building. "Not only will the building be protected from further water damage, but we will be able to continue creating a welcoming and safe space for the community to meet and enjoy freshly roasted coffee," added Wirth. The Downtown Tiffin Historic District requires approval from the Architectural Board of Review (ABR) before any exterior changes can begin. Guidelines for that process and other building improvement resources are available through the Tiffin-Seneca Economic Partnership's guide, How to Renovate or Improve a Commercial Building. To learn more about future grant cycles or how to apply, contact Downtown Tiffin Main Street Manager Donna Gross at gross@tiffinseneca.org or visit www.downtowntiffin.org.