Deal announces more than $37.5 million in community development awards

ATLANTA — Gov. Nathan Deal on Thursday announced that 59 Georgia communities will receive a total of $37.55 million in federal assistance to help grow their local economies. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development awarded the funding to Georgia’s Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program, which is administered by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs.

“Georgia’s economic growth is a result of strong and prosperous communities across the state,” Deal said. “The CDBG program addresses critical community needs by providing cities and counties with the necessary resources to improve overall quality of life and revitalize the local economies that need it the most. By continuing to invest in our local communities, we are preparing all of Georgia’s citizens for an even brighter future as well as solidifying our position as the top state in the nation for business.”

Of the 59 communities receiving grants, 51 will receive $32.7 million in CDBG funds for infrastructure improvements, neighborhood revitalization and centers to serve citizens in need. Also, $4.8 million in CDBG Employment Incentive Program and Redevelopment Fund awards have been presented to 10 Georgia communities to invest in restoration and economic development projects that are creating 446 jobs and generating an additional $117 million in private investment.

The CDBG program supports projects in Georgia’s small and rural communities that create jobs and assist citizens with low and moderate incomes. Awards ranging from $237,639 to $1 million will be used for specific projects such as water, sewer, drainage or street improvements, revitalization of targeted neighborhoods, and construction of facilities such as health, youth and senior centers. Communities are required to complete their designated project within two years of receiving awards.

“CDBG grants help lay the groundwork for future growth for our communities, and are often leveraged with other funding to help them prepare for economic development opportunities,” DCA Commissioner Camila Knowles said. “These awards are about helping each community achieve its vision and implement plans to create a bright future.”

The annual grants are one of the most recognized, competitive and vital programs administered by DCA. CDBG funds support the establishment, expansion or renovation of public facilities, including domestic violence and battered women’s shelters and facilities for abused children.

The CDBG program’s investments in new and enhanced health care facilities have helped more than 250,000 Georgians gain access to improved health care services, primarily in hard-to-reach areas. To date, the CDBG program has funded critical projects to improve water and sewer services for more than 200,000 people in rural communities across the state.

Among the regional grants were $725,000 for neighborhood revitalization in Pelham; $500,000 for drainage and street improvements in Cordele; $420,000 for water improvement in Crisp County; $392,000 for drainage and street improvements for Worth County; and $377,000 for redevelopment in Tifton.