HONESDALE, PA – In late August 2021, the Downtown Honesdale Revitalization Plan received its very own inoculation. The Jon and Helen Villaume Foundation promised to match up to thirty thousand dollars ($30,000) donated from August 15 to November 1, 2021. The only stipulation was it had to be from the community. It seemed like a monster task, but it was not only matched but surpassed. The total received from May 2021, including the Villaume Grant, has the revitalization plan at a little over ninety thousand dollars ($90,000).

Make your tax-deductible contribution through the Wayne County Community Foundation's website at www.WayneFoundation.org. Financial stability is critical when one of the recognized match grant applications opens. All in all, the estimated parking garage, new sidewalks, electric posts, benches, planters, and two new plazas will cost $9,000,000. This work will benefit generations of Wayne County residents and visitors and continue over six years. The next milestone is $200,000.

Lisa Burns, Executive Director, GHP, states this Revitalization as a whole feels like a daunting task, one we cannot meet, but then I'm reminded GHP is part of the Wayne County Community. Just to look at the numbers and not the outcome is paralyzing." We are strong, resilient, and responsible citizens. This Revitalization will improve ours, our children, and our grandchildrens' quality of life, and for me keeping that in perspective is the most important thing."

GHP is currently managing a Department of Community & Economic Development -Keystone Community Program Façade Match Grant. A little over $16,000 has been awarded to Main Street businesses, and this grant is essential to maintain Honesdale's authentic charm.

Properties that have not been updated in several years can apply for new awnings, repairs to masonry, woodwork, brickwork, architectural enhancements, removal of inappropriate materials, and replacement of exterior lighting and doors. Not included are maintenance projects, sidewalks, planters, or to replace any of the historical aspects of the building. Get your application by emailing GHP@VisitHonesdalePA.com. Like all financial awards, strict requirements must be adhered to, otherwise, the state will not provide funding.

GHP hopes to begin the engineering phase in 2022 with funding through an LSA-Monroe County Grant.