Submitted photo
Paul Fagley, design committee member hands a facade improvement check to Cindi Berrier, property owner and manager of Queenie’s Junktique at 25 N. Main St.

LEWISTOWN — Frank and Cynthia Berrier recently completed a façade and building rehabilitation project at 25 N. Main St., the property that houses Queenie’s Junktique, with assistance from a reimbursement grant from Downtown Lewistown Inc.

Several nondescript front façade windows were replaced, minor masonry repointing was completed and additional minor façade repairs were addressed as part of the project. As a condition of the grant and in compliance with the Borough of Lewistown, all exterior elevations were required to meet code upon completion.

The property owners also replaced shingles on a second-story south elevation and repaired steps to the lower level at their own expense.

Downtown Lewistown Inc. provided a $3,292 matching reimbursement grant for the façade upgrade.

“Facade grants contribute to a vibrant downtown, attract new businesses and encourage ongoing revitalization,” said Paul Fagley, a member of the DLI Design Committee. “Additionally, supporting the rehabilitation of one of our historic buildings helps preserve the character of the community.”

The project was supported in part by a $50,000 allocation from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development. Project applications are reviewed by a committee and forwarded to the Downtown Lewistown Inc. Board of Directors for approval.

Exterior inspections are conducted by the borough code enforcement office and the Downtown Lewistown Inc. executive director before and after project completion. Once completed, properties must meet standards set by the International Property Maintenance Code for Existing Buildings. A maintenance agreement is also required to ensure compliance and retention of improvements.

Downtown Lewistown Inc. is a nonprofit organization that receives operational funding from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development and support from the Borough of Lewistown, MCIDC, Mifflin County, Derry and Granville townships, Burnham Borough and local businesses and property owners.