Anniston Awarded $750,000 for Downtown Historic Revitalization

Anniston, Ala. – Downtown Anniston is set to receive a major boost in its revitalization efforts following the award of a $750,000 Paul Bruhn Historic Revitalization Grant from the National Park Service.

The funding will be administered locally by the Anniston Downtown Development Authority (DDA), which will distribute subgrants to eligible property owners within the Main Street Anniston business districts. The grants will support major restoration projects and critical code-compliance upgrades, including the installation of fire suppression and sprinkler systems in historic buildings.

Karla Eden, Executive Director of Mainstreet Anniston, called the award a milestone for the city’s downtown district.

“This award is a pivotal turning point for Downtown Anniston,” Eden said. “By helping property owners restore historic buildings and meet modern safety standards, we’ll increase the number of move-in-ready spaces and lower the barrier to entry for entrepreneurs and investors. This investment makes property renovations more accessible, accelerates revitalization, and strengthens the heart of our community.”

Wes Couch, Chairman of the Anniston DDA, said the program balances preservation with future growth.

“This grant marks a pivotal step forward for Anniston, honoring our history while building a stronger foundation for growth,” Couch said. “In collaboration with property owners, community partners, and city leaders, the DDA will ensure these revitalization projects create lasting benefits for businesses, residents, and visitors. Downtown Anniston’s renewal is well underway, and its future has never looked brighter.”

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Program Details

• Administrator: Anniston Downtown Development Authority

• Eligible Areas: Downtown Anniston and West 15th Main Street business districts

• Uses: Rehabilitation and restoration of contributing historic buildings; code-compliance upgrades such as fire suppression and life-safety improvements

• Standards: All projects must follow the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation

• Tax Incentives: Applicants are encouraged to pursue Historic Preservation Tax Credits in addition to the subgrant program. (Tax credit applications must be filed prior to applying for DDA subgrants.)

Program guidelines and application materials will be released in the coming weeks. Subgrant applications are not yet available.