Program would give grants to improve Nashua businesses

Fifteen years or so ago, Sy Mahfuz refurbished the outside of his Main Street store, improving business in the process. “We saw the difference it made when people see you’re doing something to improve,” said Mahfuz, owner of Persian Rug Galleries at 227 1? 2 Main St. Thing is, such improvements have an effect beyond the individual business. The whole area looks better, Mahfuz said. Without such face lifts, buildings can wear a tired appearance, he said.

That’s why Mafuz contacted officials from Great American Downtown to express an interest in a program now before a Board of Alderman committee. Under the program, 50 percent matching federal grants would be available to owners of commercial property and business property downtown to improve their buildings’ facades. If the city does approve the program, Mahfuz said he’d be one of the first in line to participate. “We’re able to do something for Main Street that’s going to benefit everybody,” Mahfuz said. The resolution is before the aldermen’s human affairs committee. Read More…