The Oswego Village Board recently approved a grant for a downtown restaurant undergoing renovations.
La Marimba Restaurant was awarded $40,000 in grant funding from the village for the full-service eatery at 65 W. Washington St.
The restaurant has been in Oswego since 2021, Oswego Economic Development Director Kevin Leighty said in a report to trustees. The 2,400-square-foot building was previously occupied by another tenant, Firehouse Pizza.
“The applicant is requesting $40,000 in grant funding to help offset the high building material and construction (costs) that exist in the current market,” Leighty said, adding the requested amount is based on the total project cost of $120,000.
The restaurant is proposing to complete “a substantial renovation project” that has already included the replacement of the roof and some exterior painting.
“They are now seeking assistance for the next phase of the project,” Leighty said.
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The restaurateur is looking to do a reconstruction of the front entrance along Washington Street as well as install a new pergola for an outdoor patio, officials said.
“Each of the pending improvements are eligible expenses under the program and have a total estimated value of approximately $80,000,” he said.
The primary purpose of the grant program is to assist with property improvements which will enhance Oswego’s downtown business district. A full-service restaurant is on a list of preferred projects in the program’s eligibility criteria, village officials said.
Linda Girardi is a freelance reporter for The Beacon-News.