Valley Stream launches storefront improvement program

The Village of Valley Stream is launching a program to assist small business owners to rehab their storefronts. 

Businesses located along Rockaway Avenue between Sunrise Highway and Merrick Avenue are eligible for grant funding to cover 80 percent of the cost of new signs, lights and awnings. 

“Through the pandemic, the village has been helping our local businesses with outdoor dining, events, and outreach for local grant programs and other assistance,” Valley Stream Mayor Ed Fare said in a written statement. “This sign program will directly assist local shops that seek to reinvest in their business to continue revitalizing our Rockaway Avenue business district.” 

Funds for the program are made available through the Nassau County Office of Community Development.  

“Valley Stream businesses have been very resilient, but additional help to give a fresh look to their signs and facades can help attract new customers and keep existing shoppers patronizing our brick-and-mortar stores,” Sasan Shavanson, president of the Valley Stream Chamber of Commerce, said in the statement. 

Elissa Kyle, placemaking director for Vision Long Island, said beautification in a downtown isn’t just about aesthetics, but also about creating an inviting environment with a strong sense of place that people are attracted to. 

“This sign and façade program will help improve the public realm along Rockaway Avenue and create a place where shoppers want to come and linger,” Kyle said in the statement. “The more time people spend in a place, the more money they tend to spend, supporting the local businesses and adding to the vitality of downtown Valley Stream.” 

Businesses interested in applying for the storefront improvement grants are advised to contact the village’s Office of Community Development.