The window was one major project that, when it was completed, allowed Gina and Jon to breathe a huge sigh of relief, but it wasn’t the only project that qualified them for Mission Main Street funding. They also had the exterior of the building power washed, all the trim repainted, and they had the intricate, antique, original door plate and handle restored. The total of all their exterior projects was around $3,000, which meant that the Welsh family only paid $1,500 out of pocket for all of that work. They are now looking forward to the next round of Facade Improvement Grants to apply for funding to complete some brick repointing work that will help, not only with the structure of the building, but also the aesthetics of the facade.

And the application process was simple. “The paperwork was very easy,” said Gina. They had to record estimates from all of the contractors for prior approval, submit “before” pictures of the projects, and fill out the necessary forms (which are available here). But otherwise, the process, which can sound intimidating at first, was undaunting.

With those exterior projects off the books, and after completing some interior improvements like hardwood floor refinishing, painting, and the basement-turned-winemaking-room conversion project, the Welshes are excited to get their new business off on the right foot. The official Opening Day of Full Circle Winery was Thursday, October 28th, and they’re hoping everyone near and far comes to visit, to taste their wine, and to admire their historic, restored building. Gina says that, although she knew these projects needed to get done, it really was the Facade Improvement Grant Program that pushed them in the direction of completion when they did. It would have taken longer for them to get things ready for the public if it hadn’t been for this grant program.

Gina and Jon also believe it’s important to be a part of this small historic town’s Main Street. Gina says that the foot traffic that goes by their newly replaced window is astounding: “It’s a great little town and it’s extremely important that we’re here in the community of Girard. We’re so excited to be here.”

Written by Erin Phillips - Girard Borough