The second phase of development for the Downtown Revitalization Incentives Program has been given the green light.

At their December 8 meeting, Wood Buffalo Council approved the next step.

The decision followed extensive engagement with applicants, downtown business owners, and stakeholders and began in June.

So far, 15 grants have been approved totaling $650,000.

If you are a downtown business or property owner, you can still apply for the four 50 per cent reimbursement grants until December 31st.

Grants are available to help upgrade or rehabilitate the interiors or exteriors of commercial buildings, improve building exteriors or facades, construct or upgrade patios or install beautification projects.

The next phase is expected to launch in March of 2021.