Silo ‘67 Adds Natural Light Through FEDA’s Building Façade Loan Program

The Building Façade Loan Program by the Fairmont Economic Development Authority (FEDA) celebrates its third year in 2026, and more than 16 businesses have improved their exteriors and invested in their buildings through its funds. One notable business, Silo ‘67, used the loan program to install exterior windows, creating an opportunity to welcome customers while adding natural light to its dining area.

“The natural light is the first thing people notice when they come in,” says Ryan Hauschlid, owner of Silo ‘67. “Our customers mention how dark the space was previously and how the light adds so much. I couldn’t run this restaurant without natural light.”

The Building Façade Loan Program helps individual businesses while improving Fairmont businesses as a whole. This can lead to long-term benefits for the local economy and foster entrepreneurship in the long run. 

Hauschlid Turned a Bar Into an Upscale Eatery

Silo ‘67 replaced Shenanigans Cheer and Chow, a bar at 115 E 3rd St. When Hauschlid purchased Shenanigans in 2024, there were no windows whatsoever. Hauschlid knew that if he was going to turn the bar into an upscale eatery, he would need to install new windows that let in natural light.

“We took out the old framing and put in windows where they were 30 years ago,” he says.

Hauschlid worked with Ned Koppen, Economic Development Coordinator at FEDA, to secure the Building Façade Loan and contracted Fairmont Glass to assist with construction and installation. Hauschlid opened Silo ‘67 in June 2024, his first restaurant, and has enjoyed a steady flow of customers ever since.  

The Façade Program Issues Forgivable Loans

Building Façade Loans cover up to half of the costs for projects up to $5,000. Applicants are asked to submit quotes for what the project is expected to cost, which the City of Fairmont reviews. The City also confirms that the work has been done up to the submitted expectations before it issues the loan.

Businesses that secure loans through the Building Façade Program have the opportunity to have their debt forgiven after five years, 20 percent is forgiven each year. Recipients make no payments on the interest-free loans throughout the term of the loan. FEDA reimburses the business for its half of each project after the applicant shows they have paid for it.

Project funds can be used for a variety of improvements, ranging from signage updates to door and awning replacements. The goal of the program is to make businesses more visible to customers while improving the appearance of businesses in Fairmont.

“This program is designed to help business owners bring foot traffic into their stores,” says Koppen. “By improving Fairmont businesses, we hope to attract more visitors to the region, growing the customer base and revenue of the businesses that operate here.”

One Downtown Change Inspires Others   

Koppen hopes the FEDA board will continue to fund the Façade Loan Program as he works with other Fairmont businesses to update their exteriors. As more storefronts use the loan, Fairmont continues to change, with refreshed businesses inviting back customers and winning over new ones.

“Since we’ve opened, the bookstore across the street has completed its own renovations,” says Hauschlid. “Fairmont is starting to appeal to a whole new clientele and changing the feel of downtown.”

This process started when Hauschlid turned a dive bar into an upscale dining experience, complete with a scratch kitchen, cocktail program, and natural light. Now other business owners are matching the vibes of Silo ‘67 with their own upgrades and investments.  

Apply for Building Façade Loan Program Today

Fairmont businesses can still apply for Façade Loan Program funding to update their exteriors and attract customers. Learn more about this program and other local incentives and download an application today. Loan program applications are available in English and Spanish.

If you have any questions about the Façade Loan Program, don’t hesitate to reach out to FEDA. Koppen and his team are happy to walk through each step and discuss whether this program is a good fit for your needs. Contact FEDA today.