Facade Program

The WLDC and Neighbors of Watertown are working together to preserve the heritage and improve the facades of several historic buildings in downtown Watertown's Public Square National Register Historic District.

The Public Square Historic District Façade Easement Program is spearheaded by Neighbors of Watertown, a local Neighborhood Preservation Company experienced in historic preservation rehabilitation. With $256,000 for the program provided by the WLDC, and a $200,000 state grant from NY Main Street, the program is well funded. The program is one of the major reasons why the ongoing revitalization of downtown Watertown is so successful.

The back of the Paddock Arcade, Avon Shoes, Abbey Carpet, and Wing Wagon have all received new facades thanks to the program. Other downtown buildings receiving facade improvements in the near future are Rent-A-Zone, the former Apex Army & Navy, the now vacant Liberty Ice Cream and Tico's Tex Mex Grill. Improvements might include installing new signs, new storefront and upper-floor windows, painting, making improvements to cornices and replacing doors. The end result is always a beautifully rehabilitated facade, and a more attractive, more marketable downtown.

Click the images below to see photos of businesses involved in the Facade Program.