Now is a Great Time to Invest in Downtown Palestine

It’s always a good time to invest in Palestine, Texas—but recent developments make this an especially strategic moment for business owners, entrepreneurs, and franchisees to explore Main Street and the recently renovated surrounding areas. New commercial properties have hit the real estate market in this high-demand area, and the Palestine Economic Development Corporation (PEDC) makes securing grants and incentives straightforward, helping to lower the cost and risk of investing in these properties..

“Palestine has a picturesque downtown that is perfect for daytime shopping and a vibrant nightlife,” says Christophe Trahan, Economic Development Director for PEDC. “If you are considering expanding your business into the area or following your entrepreneurial dreams, downtown is a great place to start your search.”

Discover Downtown Palestine and join other business owners as this part of town experiences a renaissance. Here’s why this area is poised for growth in the coming months. 

Multiple Commercial Properties Are Now Available

Downtown real estate in Palestine has traditionally been limited and in high demand, but a wave of newly listed commercial storefronts is creating fresh opportunities for business owners to establish a presence in this sought-after area. Whether you are seeking a location for a restaurant, retail space, or office, explore Palestine’s available properties online to find options that fit your needs.

PEDC’s online tools help streamline the property search process, making it easy to filter listings and focus your search on buildings that meet your requirements. Search existing properties designed specifically for your business type to make it easier to open your new location.  

“Downtown Palestine is full of new opportunities right now,” says Corby Chaney, Palestine Main Street Coordinator. “With more storefronts becoming available, we’re excited to see what business owners and entrepreneurs will bring to our community. We’re working hard to make downtown a destination where people from all over can visit and experience everything we have to offer. It’s been exciting to watch the new changes and construction take shape, and we can’t wait to share the results as our downtown continues to grow and thrive.”

Businesses Can Utilize PEDC’s Grant Programs 

Small business support is the heart of PEDC’s work. We offer two key grant programs designed to help local business owners enhance their operations and foster growth within the community.

The Downtown Grant Program is designed specifically for downtown facilities. This grant matches up to 75% of project costs up to $75,000 per address for business-owner occupied buildings and up to 50% of project costs with a cap of $50,000 for third-party leased/investor-owned buildings. The program also distributes microgrants of less than $10,000, which are ideal for smaller-scale improvements that can still make a big difference, like new lighting, window repairs, exterior lighting, or other upgrades that help refresh a business and enhance the overall look and feel of downtown.

These microgrants support the idea that even modest changes, when added together, have a powerful cumulative impact on revitalizing the district. Some eligible grant projects include façade and building stabilization projects like roof replacement, structural work, ADA accessibility upgrades, and utility system improvements (like electrical, plumbing, and HVAC). Business owners can contact PEDC directly for assistance with the application process.

PEDC also manages a Community Development Grant for non-profits that provides financial assistance to projects that enhance the quality of life for Palestine residents while promoting business development and sustainable economic growth. Projects support cultural, sports, fitness, entertainment, and community projects that support resident and visitor participation. These projects also contribute to the quality of life, business development, and growth of the City of Palestine through sales tax revenue.

Don’t forget to explore the local incentives that make operating in Palestine even more affordable. These include tax abatements, fee waivers, infrastructure cost participation, and workforce development support. Contact PEDC to learn which incentives may apply to your project.

The Recent Revitalization Project Has Improved Infrastructure

The Downtown Revitalization Project has been a part of Main Street over the past few years, but many store owners and residents are starting to see the benefits of this initiative.

The construction project updated utilities in Downtown Palestine, some of which were installed in the early 1900s. It also includes infrastructure improvements like new streets and sidewalks. It will be easier for customers to visit Downtown and walk along the storefronts, while business owners can enjoy better water, sewer, and storm drainage.

“We understand that construction can be frustrating and inconvenient,” says Mary Ann Admire, Business Intelligence and Marketing Analyst for PEDC. “But the long-term benefits far outweigh the temporary challenges. The renewed interest in Downtown Palestine will create lasting value for business owners and residents for decades to come.” 

Choose to Do Business in Downtown Palestine

Palestine, Texas, continues to grow as more people discover this small town full of charm. The newly renovated downtown will attract tourists and residents, benefiting the business owners who operate there. The grants and incentives offered by PEDC can make renovating your business affordable and easy.

Contact PEDC and learn how we can help you establish a business in Downtown Palestine. One conversation can transform the future of your business.