FLORIDA'S LEE COUNTY OFFERS GRANTS FOR HISTORIC BUILDINGS AND HOMES FIXUPS

Seeking to preserve the area’s historic housing treasures, Lee County is offering a total of $50,000 for endangered structures for projects such as structural work, roofs, sidings, foundations that are in big need of repair.   

The buildings must be at least 50 years old and designated as a historic site.

The Estero Historic Society wants to preserve their first schoolhouse, built in 1904, but renovation is estimated at $80,000.  Matching funds would be sought.  The Schoolhouse would be used for tours. The school house and the historic Hall-Collier house were moved to the Estero Community Park using a $100,000 grant from the local College of Life Foundation.

For an application, as the funds can be split, call the Lee County Planning Division at  229-513-8118.  Applications are due by December 3, 2010.