Two additional structures in Historic Downtown Batesville are getting facelifts from building owner Dr. Kristi Ketz, with assistance from the Citizens Bank Impact Grants program.
Dr. Ketz recently received two grants totaling $9,750 to repair and restore the facades of downtown buildings that currently house her psychology practice and the Fringe Salon at 345 East Main Street, and Wann Office Supply at 347 East Main Street.
“Since moving back to my hometown 11 years ago, I’ve felt that downtown Batesville had great potential for re-development and I’m so excited to see this finally happening and proud to be a part of it,” Dr. Ketz said. “The buildings I’m renovating are particularly special to me since they were built by my great-grandfather and great-great-uncle in the 1940s, and housed my dad’s law practice for many years.”
The renovation will transform the facades of the two buildings to more closely resemble the original structures in the historic district. It also includes a new entrance into Dr. Ketz’s psychology consulting practice, which she operates in addition to her clinical work at White River Medical Center.
The Citizens Bank Impact Loan & Grant Program is a five-year commitment by the bank, which in 2016 created a $10 million redevelopment fund for low interest rate loans and a grant pool of $100,000 to reinforce the Impact Independence Strategic Plan for Independence County.
“Citizens Bank is proud that so many property owners and merchants have taken advantage of this program to transform previously vacant storefronts into thriving businesses in downtown Batesville,” said Phil Baldwin, Citizens Bank Chief Executive Officer. “Dedicated community banks create these types of programs to support and strengthen the local economy.”
The grants have helped property and business owners with such needs as painting, restoring exterior finishes and materials, exterior lighting, awnings, sidewalk renovation, and landscaping.
Additional information about the Citizens Bank Impact Loans program is available by contacting either Jerrod Sandefur for commercial loans (870-698-6313) or Renee Long for consumer loans (870-698-9678).
