The City of Orange is preparing for final approval of five economic development grants totaling nearly $420,000 to support local business growth and infrastructure development. The grants, managed through the City’s Economic Development Corporation (EDC), will assist with construction and property improvements across several locations, including a new apartment complex on Bowling Lane.
The grant proposals have been reviewed by both the EDC Board of Directors, which includes city council members and appointed residents, and the Orange City Council, which is expected to grant final approval soon.
All grants are reimbursement-based and focus on infrastructure-related improvements such as concrete work, water and sewer systems, HVAC systems, and equipment installations. Funds are distributed after project completion once the city receives verified invoices.
Grant Recipients and Project Highlights
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Ace Business Park—Located at 4200 Highway 105, this project will receive a $100,000 grant for new office space and bathroom construction. Boren Construction and Consultants of Bridge City is leading the $2.42 million development.
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Newton Core / Bowling Village Apartments – A $120,000 grant is set for the construction of new apartment housing at 3320 Bowling Lane, helping meet local residential demand.
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Awesome Plaza – An older strip center at 16th Street and Burton Avenue will receive $29,000 for renovations including new fencing. The center currently houses a financial company, an insurance agency, and a shoe repair shop.
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Gisela Houseman Medical Center / SAFNS MOB – A $50,000 grant will support exterior enhancements at 6901 Medical Center Drive, including a new canopy, lighting, and signage as part of the development at Eagle Point.
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Red Gator Rentals / Regan Holdings LLC – Located at 3400 Edgar Brown Drive, this business will receive a $120,000 grant for multiple upgrades, including a glass storefront, LED lighting, new HVAC units, and additional renovations to office and showroom spaces.
These grants are funded through a special half-cent sales tax approved by Orange voters in 2002, establishing the City’s Economic Development Corporation. Since then, the EDC has awarded grants supporting various projects, from large-scale industrial developments to small and mid-sized businesses, including local restaurants and retail establishments.
The EDC Board of Directors, currently led by newly appointed President George Mortimer following Jason Rodrigue’s recent resignation, consists of seven members: the mayor, two city council members, and four residents appointed by the council.
