Program

 Sign Package Fund                        

Minimum/Maximum Amounts

Minimum  $1,000
Maximum  $5,000

Eligible Activities

The design, fabrication, and installation of business identification signs the like, with related infrastructure, including lighting. brackets, cases, as deemed appropriate for the building, the block face and the streetscape. 
Available to business owners* and/or building owners. *Building owner consent required.  In some cases the removal of signs and related infrastructure may be eligible costs.

Term & Amortization

Amount approved to be based on project estimates(2 minimum), of which 50% will be financed through the Deferred Payment Loan Program.  A 50% match is required of the applicant.  Deferred payment loan forgiven over a 5-year period, 20% forgiven each year as long as the sign remains in use within the City of Bethlehem and the loan is maintained in accordance with the loan agreement.
Advances are made on reimbursement basis for approved expenses.  Funds will be advanced in draws, but can not be advanced prior to phased work being completed.

Rate

0%

Fees

$250 application fee
1% loan fee
Actual recording and filing costs

Special Notes

Program limited to targeted areas of the city. Presently these area are the South Bethlehem Redevelopment Area, North Side Central Business District, Northside Neighborhood Business Districts.  Please verify eligibility be calling the City of Bethlehem Office of Economic Development.

Signage plans for properties that are located within one of the City's Historic Districts require a Certificate of Appropriateness, as advised by the appropriate local district commission, prior to loan approval and sign installation. Plans for signs and installation must comply with the Secretary of the Interior's Standards of Building Rehabilitation.

Labor costs are subject to Davis Bacon Prevailing Wage regulations.

Loans will be collateralized whenever possible.

Job Creation/Retention Requirements

None

Where to Apply

City of Bethlehem
Office of Economic Development
10 E. Church Street
Bethlehem, PA 18018

Contact Person

Howard Lieberman
Economic Development Coordinator
Phone:  610-865-7318
Fax:       610-865-7310
Email:   liebehow@bethlehem-pa.gov

Web link

www.Bethlehem-pa.gov/econ_dev

Application Download Available