Applications are open for Austin’s Heritage Preservation Grant

The city of Austin is once again opening the floor to bids for its Heritage Preservation Grant, offering funding for preservation and storytelling efforts at historically landmarked sites.

The program, funded by the city’s Hotel Occupancy Tax revenue, offers sums ranging from $30,000 to $200,000 for projects at landmark destinations open to the public and eligible for historic zoning. Per state law, projects must demonstrate intent to promote the city’s tourism and hotel industries.

Last year, the program doled out $3.59 million to its 23 awardees, with projects running the gamut from roof and porch repairs to cultural event programs and tour development. Qualifying projects are split into four categories, which include capital restoration, educational programming, marketing and planning investments.

Past recipients include the Austin Theatre Alliance, which is using the funding to embark on ambitious renovations to the historic Paramount and Stateside theaters, and Pioneer Farms, which is restoring the Freedom Colony-era Dodson Farmhouse for use as a museum and exhibition space.

Others include the Pease Park Conservancy, which is using its funding to implement a Black History Interpretive Plan with storytelling features, exhibitions and events like its annual Juneteenth celebration. Arts programming at historic venues like Women & Their Work on Cesar Chavez Street, South Austin’s Umlauf Sculpture Garden and Laguna Gloria have also benefited from the grant.

Those interested in applying are welcome to attend an upcoming virtual office hours session from 10 a.m. to noon Tuesday, Sept. 24. The city will continue accepting applications until 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 8.

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