Paint and Fix-Up Grant Program

The City of La Crosse’s Neighborhood Revitalization Commission is offering a voluntary Paint and Fix-Up Grant Program for residential properties located within designated target areas of the city. Property owners in the Downtown and Washburn neighborhoods are eligible to apply.

Map of 2025-2026 Paint and Fix-Up Eligible Properties

Program Eligibility and Funding

Properties and property owners are not eligible for funding if there are any outstanding Orders to Correct issued by the City’s Building & Inspections Office, or if there are unpaid fees associated with the property or any other property owned by the applicant. This includes, but is not limited to, delinquent property taxes or unpaid utility bills.

The purpose of this program is to enhance neighborhood appearance and strengthen community pride by supporting exterior home improvements. The City of La Crosse is home to several established neighborhoods that face challenges related to aging housing stock, higher rental rates, and the need to attract and retain long-term residents. Similar programs have demonstrated a positive impact by encouraging reinvestment and improving surrounding properties.

This program is available to both owner-occupied and non-owner-occupied (rental) properties.

• Owner-occupied properties are eligible for reimbursement of up to $1,000 for exterior painting, staining, and repair materials.
• Rental properties are eligible for reimbursement of up to $1,000 and require a 100% match from the property owner.

Program Process

1. Submit a Pre-Documentation Form

Applicants must complete a Pre-Documentation Form that includes a detailed, itemized description of the proposed project and estimated costs. Only items listed on this form will be considered for reimbursement.

Eligible improvements include exterior painting and repairs to the primary structure and detached garages, including materials, parts, and labor. Repairs and painting of fences located in front or side yards may also qualify.

Professional labor costs are eligible for reimbursement; however, the program encourages property owners to contribute sweat equity to maximize project impact. If a contractor is required, a written cost estimate must be submitted, and the contractor must be licensed in the State of Wisconsin.

This grant may be used in conjunction with larger improvement projects. Please note that this is a reimbursement-based program; applicants are responsible for paying all costs upfront and will be reimbursed upon project completion and approval.

2. Provide Before Photos

Applicants must submit photo documentation of the project area prior to beginning work. Projects without before photos will not be considered. Assistance is available if needed.

3. Submit a W-9 Form

A completed W-9 Form is required for participation. For questions, please contact the City of La Crosse Finance Department at 608-789-9580. Forms may also be mailed directly to:

Attn: Paint and Fix-Up Program
400 La Crosse Street
La Crosse, WI 54601

4. Sign the Contract for Services

If approved, the City will complete applicable sections of the Contract for Services and return it to the applicant for signature.

5. Submit Complete Application

Applications must include:

• Pre-Documentation Form
• Before photos
• Completed W-9 Form
• Signed Contract for Services

Applications may be submitted by email, mail, or in person to the Planning, Development and Assessment Department. Please include “Paint & Fix-Up Program” in the subject line or attention field. Applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Applicants will be notified of their status within ten (10) business days.

6. Project Completion

Approved applicants may begin work only after receiving City approval and must complete the project within one (1) year.

Important – Painting Projects:
All surface preparation must be completed and documented prior to painting. This includes removing loose paint, treating rust, priming surfaces, and cleaning as necessary. All materials must be purchased by the applicant, and receipts must be retained for reimbursement.

Important – All Projects:
All repair costs must be paid upfront by the applicant. Receipts or contractor invoices marked “Paid in Full” are required for reimbursement.

7. Submit Final Reimbursement Documentation

To receive reimbursement, applicants must submit:

• Completed Final Reimbursement Form
• Copies of receipts and/or paid invoices (clearly indicating reimbursable items)
• Final photo documentation of completed work

Reimbursement Details

• Owner-occupied properties: 100% reimbursement, up to $1,000
• Rental properties: 50% reimbursement, up to $1,000

Reimbursement payments are issued by mail to the property owner. Payments are processed on the second Friday of each month, provided all required documentation is submitted at least two weeks in advance.