|
|
|
|
Southbridge receives $800,000 Community Development Grant
July 10, 2007...Southbridge has been awarded a $800,000 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) from the Department of Housing and Community Development for housing rehabilitation and a downtown infrastructure project according to Sen. Richard T. Moore, D-Uxbridge, and Rep. Geraldo Alicea, D-Charlton. The grant is part of $30.2 million in federal Community Development block grants awarded to 59 communities across the Commonwealth. "This continued partnership between state and local governments will help Southbridge in providing financing to housing properties for rehabilitation and sidewalk reconstruction and streetscape improvements," said Moore. "I congratulate the town officials for their vision to apply for this significant grant that will contribute to important local projects and improve housing opportunities in the area." Rep. Alicea added, "These funds will go a long way in improving specific projects that the town of Southbridge has recently targeted. This joint venture is a great example of the different ways that we can work to assist Southbridge with their capital needs." Funding for the Southbridge targeted projects include:
Governor Deval L. Patrick and Tina Brooks, the undersecretary for housing and community development joined in applauding the town's efforts and dedication to community development. "These funds will play an important role in helping us to improve communities and neighborhoods in every region of the state," said Gov. Patrick. "Whether it is increased affordable housing opportunities, improved roadways, expanded businesses or refurbished parks, residents from the Berkshires to the Cape and the Islands will benefit from today's announcement." "These grants are an extremely valuable and popular resource and can be used any number of ways to serve low- and moderate-income residents of the Commonwealth," said undersecretary Brooks. Community Development Block Grants are issued annually by the federal government and are awarded competitively to cities and towns to address a wide range of unique development needs. The Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development administers CDBG funds to cities and towns with populations of less than 50,000. The funds are targeted to provide decent housing and a suitable living environment and to expand economic opportunities, principally for persons of low- and moderate-income. Eligible communities with populations greater than 50,000 receive CDBG funding directly from the US Department of Housing and Urban Development. |
