Lower Merion business and commercial property owners can take advantage of funding now available to improve the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility of their buildings. Federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) grant funding in the form of a Township matching grant can be used by any owner of commercial, retail or mixed-use properties or businesses located within any of the eleven commercial districts in Lower Merion Township.

Proposed projects can include ADA Accessibility modifications to entries and doorways, bathrooms, as well as accessibility to upper floors, including installation of elevators. Generally, grant funds will be matched on a 1/4: 3/4 ratio; the applicant being responsible for a minimum 25% match toward the grant award. The maximum grant amount for this type of project application will be $25,000.

If the project application is for installation of an elevator meeting ADA accessibility requirements, then up to $75,000 of grant funds can be available. These funds must be matched on a 1/3:2/3 ratio; the applicant being responsible for a minimum 1/3 match toward the grant award.

Grants will only be made on a reimbursable basis. Work must be completed, and canceled checks provided as evidence of payment before grant expenses will be reimbursed.

Davis-Bacon Wage requirements on construction over $2,000 will apply. All construction must be in compliance with the Township's adopted building codes and all other applicable laws and regulations including zoning laws. In addition, work that includes alteration to interior spaces or exit ways may be subject to Pennsylvania Labor and Industry review.

“The Township also requires that prior to submitting an application, applicants must meet with Township Community Development staff to discuss merits of the proposal,” remarked Eric Persson, Economic Development Specialist.

Residential uses will not be considered unless it can be demonstrated that the residential uses meet Federal low-income guidelines. Properties that are exclusively residential are not eligible to participate in this program, but may be eligible for other Township sponsored CDBG programs for low-and moderate-income owner-occupants.

Property owners and/or interested businesses are encouraged to make application to the Township of Lower Merion to utilize the available funds. For more information, contact the Township’s Office of Economic Development at (610) 645-6184.