Since the Beaches Habitat headquarters moved to Mayport Road in 2012, we’ve heard the same things over and over again…

“I didn’t know your office was here!”

“Sorry I’m late, I drove right past the building!”

Thanks to the City of Atlantic Beach, Beaches Habitat’s office will no longer fade into the background.

Earlier this year, Beaches Habitat’s CFO, Debbie Jones, learned of a new grant program available through COAB. According to their website, “The Façade Improvement Program is intended to encourage economic development and foster community pride along the Mayport Road Corridor for properties located within the Façade Improvement Area.”

In addition to the new paint color, the matching grant will help with the cost of much-needed stucco repair and a vinyl fence to replace a failing wood one.

Also in the works: landscaping improvements that will make the parking area more secure and attractive, and new signage.

While the original plan was to engage community volunteers to help with the painting and landscaping, the Safer at Home order meant that the construction team had to revise their strategy. The construction staff, lead by Site Supervisor Brigid Barrett, has used the slower pace of construction during the pandemic as an opportunity to spruce up the administrative office. Their hard work has certainly paid off – the repairs and new color look great!

As of this writing, Beaches Habitat is pleased to be the first recipient of the Facade Improvement Grant. We’re excited for this new opportunity to partner with the City of Atlantic Beach.