There’s momentum behind the mini grant program launched by the Downtown Development Authority last year. Energized by the infusion of money – up to $5,000 apiece, businesses are going for the gusto — painting, adding flowerpots, new windows, or resurfacing parking lots, for instance.

At the same time, the cash is a marketing tool, a two-for-one bonus.

“We’re getting a lot of compliments about what’s going on around town,” said DDA chair Jon Gemelke, the program’s chief advocate, speaking at the meeting Aug. 5.

Eric Cabrera, who owns the Donut Mill, found a higher meaning to the projects.

“We’re restoring our identity,” he said. “People love the flowers, love what’s going on, and say we’re bringing the town back to what it used to be. This is a huge positive for us.”

Because the flowers provide ambience while boosting business, Gemelke suggested that the DDA build a greenhouse and grow flowers for the district.

“Just think, flowers locally grown,” he said, adding that he does buy flowers from a commercial gardener in Divide.

John Hugh, co-owner of Joanie’s Deli and new DDA board member, noticed that many of the customers are walking along main street.

“June sure has been great!” said Hugh, whose projects included replacing the front window with a sliding window for orders and extending counterspace to add seating inside.

Hugh said he noticed that many of the deli’s customers are getting out of their cars and walking along main street.

“We’re doing what we’re supposed to,” Cabrera said. “We’re seeing a lot of locals this year – they’re out and about.”

Catching the vibe, Sarah Salazar, the other new board member, was animated in suggesting using the downtown alleyways, Quinn and Bergstrom, for bike trails and off-street walking.

“The beautification is great and much appreciated,” said Geoge Jones who with his wife Lynn owns Colorado Gear Labs and Zebz Outfooter.

“I like the fact that we can strengthen and enhances our businesses by doing things like this,” said Jerry Good, co-owner of Williams Log Cabin Furniture. “I’m excited that this makeover, the flowers; it’s a good direction where the town is going.”

The mood of the board was fresh, upbeat, about the new look of downtown in addition to the July 5th America’s Mountain Festival initiated by Derek Waggoner, chief executive officer of the Tava House investor group.

“‘I know from the businesses on main street, that was a very busy weekend,” Cabrera said. “I think the Tava investors are making a world of difference for the town.”

With a $40,000 infusion the city is revising the Main Street program, said Anita Riggle, the city’s Economic Development and Budget Analyst.

The program, managed by the Colorado Department of Local Affairs, is intended to revitalize downtowns, Riggle said. For Main Street designation, DOLA can help towns and cities put a fresh look at historic buildings while increasing the walkability aspect, Riggle said.

The city council discussed the issue Aug. 7.