Diamonds in the Rough Grants

The Diamonds in the Rough Grants, offered by the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, support the restoration of historically altered building facades, aiming to return them to their original appearance. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, local governments, and private property owners, with grants available up to $20,000. Projects are prioritized based on historical evidence and clear work plans, fostering community engagement and preserving Oregon's cultural heritage.

To take the long view to protect Oregon's special places and provide the greatest experience while creating stable future funding.
Priorities
Welcoming - Building on the work of the Inclusion committee, we will strive toward parks that are ready to welcome all visitors and that staff and visitors feel safe and respected.Service Delivery - As we move toward our centennial, OPRD must evaluate how and what facilities and services we manage, maintain and deliver while exploring partnerships to develop new opportunities.Succession Planning - With the knowledge that 36% of our staff are eligible to retire, it is critical OPRD plan for change and develop leaders within our agency to be ready for the next hundred yearsCelebrating Heritage - OPRD has a unique role in helping to develop and share the stories of Oregon's past, including those lesser known stories that may give a more full picture of a place or time.
Diamonds in the Rough grants are to restore or reconstruct the facades of buildings that have been heavily altered over the years. The purpose is to return them to their historic appearance and potentially qualify them for historic designation (local or national). These grants are part of the SHPO's Preserving Oregon Grant Program. Grants may be awarded up to $20,000.

Eligibility

Nonprofits, local governments, and private property owners are eligible to apply.Buildings must have heavily modified primary facades andClear evidence that substantial portions of the historic facades are still there, covered by newer materials, orHistoric photos or original drawings that provide clear evidence for guiding the restoration/reconstruction. Lower priority will be given to applications that propose work based on speculation or generic designs rather than historical evidence for that specific building.Buildings taking advantage of Oregon's Special Assessment of Historic Properties program may qualify if they meet the "heavily modified primary facade" requirement.All work must meet the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation of Historic Properties.Criteria:The level of preservation of character-defining features.
The project has a well-prioritized, clearly explained work plan with an appropriate level of detail and realistic cost estimates.Demonstrated community need for and benefit from the project.
Grants must be matched 1:1 by the grantee. Match can be in the form of cash, in-kind donations, and volunteer time. Rates for volunteer services may not exceed Oregon minimum wage, except in those instances in which the volunteer is using their professional skills for the grant assisted work.

Ineligibility

New additions are not eligible for funding.Funds from this grant program may not be claimed for the federal rehabilitation tax credits.