Gov. Bill Lee and Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner Stuart C. McWhorter recently approved $26.6 million in Community Development Block Grants (CDBG), $4.76 million of which has been awarded to communities in Northeast Tennessee. These grants will be utilized to invest in vital infrastructure, enhance transportation, and upgrade communications equipment.
The allocation of CDBG funds is based on priorities set through the public meeting process at the local community level. The CDBG program is funded through HUD and administered in Tennessee by the Department of Economic and Community Development. Funds are available for water and sewer improvements, health and safety projects, and other improvements to enhance the quality of life in Tennessee’s rural communities.
In addition to traditional community improvement and safety projects, funding was also made available for community development projects, such as sidewalk and walking trail improvements, street paving and community centers. Each year, the staff of the FTDD works closely with communities in the region to identify needs. These needs are often the basis of Community Development Block Grants, which are written by and administered on behalf of cities and counties by the District.
Lance Lowery, the Community Development Manager for the District explained that "this program empowers communities by providing funding to support economic development, improve infrastructure, and enhance quality of life. These project will address vital needs throughout the region including public safety, parks, and recreation, transportation, and wastewater infrastructure." Board Chair and Hawkins County Mayor Mark DeWitte added that “local governments rely on CDBG funds to build out roads, sidewalks, and pay for expensive equipment. We couldn’t provide the vital services our citizens require without the funding or the expertise of the staff of the FTDD.”
Each of the District's seven grant applications were funded this cycle, a point of pride for the organization.
For questions about this or other District news, please contact Mark Stevans, mstevans@ftdd.org.
Commentaires