After the Riots : NEWS IN BRIEF : DISASTER GRANTS : CRA Approves Rebuilding Grants

The Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) has approved $9.5 million in emergency grants to rebuild small businesses in 17 redevelopment areas that suffered fire and other damage during the recent riots. The areas include Hoover (around USC), Adams-Normandie, Pico-Union, Crenshaw, Watts, Hollywood, the Central Business District (downtown), Little Tokyo and Chinatown.

Property owners can apply for grants of up to $15,000 to make emergency repairs to businesses damaged by fire and vandalism. Replacement of tenant fixtures and equipment are included in the program. However, lost or stolen inventory is not covered. Larger grants of up to $75,000 are available for businesses that suffered greater damage.

The CRA had originally approved a $20-million grant program on May 1. However, the City Council scaled down the proposal and allocated $9.5 million instead.

The CRA will give priority to those businesses that provide essential services such as food, clothing and medical care, including drug stores, gas stations, hardware and building supply stores, and dry cleaners and laundries.

Property owners interested in applying for the grants must complete a one-page application and one-page grant agreement, and submit a copy of their fire insurance policy, a contractor’s bid for repairs, and proof of property ownership, such as a recent tax bill or a copy of a lease agreement.

For more information about the CRA Disaster Damage Rehabilitation Assistance Program, call (213) 977-1851.