The Georgetown Main Street Program recently presented two downtown businesses, ReImagine and Avalon Monuments, with checks to reimburse the businesses for part of the cost for new signs.

The Georgetown Main Street Faade and Sign Reimbursement Grant Program provides matching grants to commercial businesses in historic downtown to promote historic preservation and economic development in the district.

ReImagine, an antique store at 1006 S. Austin Ave, received $322 for its new sign. Owner Amneris Castillo said she was honored to receive the grant and is proud to be a part of the Georgetown community.

"The Main Street Program is very in tune with the community and does a great job of reaching out to us [business owners]," Castillo said.

Avalon Monuments, located at 1004 S Austin Ave, received $500 to cover a portion of their sign costs. Owner Larry Townsend said he heard about the program through another downtown business owner and said the process went smoothly.

"The city was great to work with," Townsend said.

Georgetown Public Communications Manager Keith Hutchinson said the program grants up to $500 for sign-matching and $10,000 for faade and exterior building work. Sign grants are typically awarded more frequently than faade grants, he said.

Businesses interested in participating in the program can submit an application along with documentation of the project costs prior to the start of construction. After receiving an application, the Main Street Advisory Board reviews the project and assigns a matching grant.