Programs & Services

Facade Reimbursement Program

This program provides reimbursement opportunities for renovations performed on the exterior facade of buildings located in the downtown area. The project must comply with the Historic Downtown Rome Design Guidelines and the U.S. Department of the Interior Standards. Copies of the standards and guidelines are available at our office. Once the approved project has been completed, in compliance with all the requirements, you will be reimbursed for the approved amount. Currently, you can receive reimbursement for one-third (up to $1,000) of your total project cost. You must spend a minimum of $1,500 to be eligible. Access the Facade Reimbursement Application (PDF).

Sidewalk Cafe PermitSidewalk Cafe

The Sidewalk Cafe Permit (PDF) should be obtained by restaurants wishing to offer an outside area of food service that is connected with, a part of, and adjacent to an indoor restaurant or cafe located in the city. Eligible restaurants that would like to establish a sidewalk cafe must obtain a sidewalk cafe permit prior to operation in the public right-of-way. The cafe operator shall meet all conditions and requirements for a sidewalk cafe permit at all times. If you have any questions, please contact our office at 706-236-4520.

Historic Plaque Program

The Downtown Development Authority (DDA), partnered with Rome Heritage Foundation, Rome Area History Museum, and Rome Business Improvement District, have created a program that identifies the original use and date of construction of properties within the central business district of Rome. Throughout the process, buildings will be identified and owners will be solicited to purchase a plaque. Owners will be offered a 50% grant for participating. The matching grant will be provided by The Rome Area Heritage Foundation and the Rome Business Improvement District. Please join the walk-through time, and honor the history of your property by purchasing a plaque. View the Historic Plaque Program Application.

Georgia Cities Foundation Revolving Loan Fund

DDA administers a loan pool sponsored by the Georgia Cities Foundation. The Foundation's purpose is to assist cities in their efforts to revitalize and enhance downtown areas by serving as a partner and facilitator in funding capital projects in the form of a revolving loan fund (RLF). Currently, the Foundation provides loans up to $250,000 with a usual repayment period of 10 years, not to exceed 15 years. Eligible projects include real estate acquisition, building rehabilitation, new construction, and green space and parks. The foundation was established in 1999 as a non-profit subsidiary of the Georgia Municipal Association (GMA). For more detailed information, please view the information listed on Georgia Cities Foundation RLF or contact our office at 706-236-4520

Georgia Department of Community Affairs Downtown Development Revolving Loan Fund (DD RLF)

DDA administers a loan pool that is sponsored by the Department of Community Affairs (DCA). DCA's purpose is to assist cities, counties, and development authorities in their efforts to revitalize and enhance downtown areas by providing financial assistance at below-market rates in the form of a revolving loan fund (RLF). The loan amount limits will generally be set at no more than $250,000 per project. The repayment period is typically 10 years with a 15-year amortization. For more detailed information on eligible and ineligible uses, please view DD RLF Brochure (PDF) or contact our office at 706-236-4520

Rome Economic Development Revolving Loan Fund (RLF)

The Rome RLF is a local fund whose goal is to expand economic opportunities for persons of low income in the City of Rome by providing funding at the local level. Rome's RLF objective is to provide loan funds to local small businesses from public resources. Additionally, Rome's RLF hopes to create public-private partnerships with local commercial banks and other private-sector lenders and investors. To be eligible, applicants must meet one of two national objectives:

  1. Benefiting low-income persons
  2. Preventing or eliminating slums or blight

For detailed information, please read the Rome RLF Policies and Procedures. For any additional information, please contact our office at 706-236-4520. Access the RLF Application (PDF).

Work Plan

View our Program of Work (PDF).