Capital Improvement Grant (CIG)

What Is the Capital Improvement Grant (CIG)?

By focusing exclusively on high-impact public right-of-way (ROW) improvements, such as enhanced lighting and streetscapes, the Capital Improvement Grant (CIG) directly increases the vitality, safety, and long-term asset value of properties in Downtown Cheyenne.

Following a 50/50 matching structure, CIG funds can cover up to 50% of project costs, with a maximum reimbursement of $50,000 per project.

View the Capital Improvement Grant process flowchart (PDF)

You can also view additional grant information (PDF), or review the grant parameters document (PDF).

When Are Grant Applications Due?

Who Is Eligible for a Capital Improvement Grant?

• Property owners, businesses, or tenants located within the Cheyenne Downtown Development Authority (DDA) boundary with written approval from the property owner, when applicable
• Nonprofit organizations or community groups proposing ROW improvements with a public use component
• Public agencies undertaking eligible projects that align with the DDA’s goals

Applicants can receive one CIG grant award per property, per year. Improvements previously awarded a DDA grant are not eligible.

What Types of Projects Are Eligible for a Capital Improvement Grant?

Projects must be:

• Located entirely within the public right-of-way (ROW)
• Designed to serve the public good by improving pedestrian accessibility, public safety, aesthetics, or downtown usability

Eligible Project Types

Awnings & Canopies

• Installation or replacement of awnings or canopies that project into the public ROW and meet design guidelines
• Banners and flags displaying the business name

Lighting

• Exterior lighting fixtures that improve visibility, safety, and aesthetics while remaining pedestrian-scaled and architecturally appropriate

Accessibility & Public Interface Improvements

• Public entryway improvements, including stairs, ramps, and landings that improve ADA accessibility from the public ROW
• Decorative fencing, planters, or sidewalk-level treatments that interface directly with the public right-of-way

Streetscape Enhancements

• Landscaping or permanent planters visible from the street
• Public art or murals facing the street that are non-commercial
• Decorative signage contributing to public wayfinding or building identity, excluding promotional signage

Examples of Eligible Projects

• ADA-accessible curb ramps or crossings accessed from the public ROW
• Public benches, bike racks, or street furniture
• Pedestrian lighting or alleyway lighting
• Public trash receptacles or planter installations
• Streetscape improvements such as landscaping or decorative paving
• Permanent public art installations within the ROW
• Wayfinding signage or kiosks within the ROW

What Types of Projects Are Not Eligible for a Capital Improvement Grant?

• Improvements not located within the public ROW, including side entrances, parking lots, or building interiors
• Temporary installations or events
• Projects that previously received DDA grant funding within the last five years
• Improvements without a demonstrated and lasting public benefit
• Projects required as part of new construction or private development agreements
• Projects already underway before applying to the CIG program

Grant Amount and Match Information

The Cheyenne DDA will fund up to 50% of the project cost, with a maximum grant amount of $50,000 per project.

A 50/50 funding match is required and may include private, City, or nonprofit funding sources.

Payment Structure

Grant reimbursement will be issued within 30 days of project completion and verification.

Evaluation Criteria

Applications will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

• Public Benefit: Contribution to public safety, accessibility, or beautification
• Alignment: Consistency with the DDA Plan of Development
• Location Priority: Projects located in key corridors or catalytic areas identified by the DDA
• Feasibility & Readiness: Evidence of permits, approvals, and project readiness
• Funding Leverage: Additional funding sources and community support

Application Process

Pre-Application Meeting (Required)

Meet with DDA staff to confirm eligibility and discuss project scope. Schedule a pre-application meeting here.

Application Submission

Complete the application form including:

1. Project description, cost estimate, and timeline
2. Site plans, elevations, or drawings, when applicable
3. Photos of existing conditions
4. Letters of support, when applicable
5. Two estimates for each proposed improvement item to ensure competitive pricing

Staff Review

Internal review for compliance and completeness, including City department reviews.

Board Approval

Project presentation to the DDA Board for approval.

Agreement Execution

Execution of the grant agreement outlining project scope and reporting expectations.

Implementation & Reimbursement

Submit invoices, photos, and inspection verification for reimbursement.

Reporting & Oversight

Projects must be completed within 12 months of award unless otherwise approved.

Funded projects must be maintained for five years after project completion.

The DDA reserves the right to inspect work and require corrective action if work deviates from the approved scope or fails compliance standards.

General Conditions

• The Cheyenne DDA reserves the right to decline any application or request modifications
• All work must comply with municipal codes, ADA guidelines, building codes, and permitting requirements
• Grantees are responsible for future maintenance unless otherwise agreed
• Recognition signage stating “Funded in part by the Downtown Development Authority” may be required