Governor Youngkin Announces $23.6 Million in Community Development Grants!

On February 6, 2025, Governor Glenn Youngkin announced the allocation of over $23.6 million in Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) to support 33 projects across Virginia.

These initiatives aim to rehabilitate housing, revitalize downtown areas, and enhance water and sewer infrastructure, benefiting more than 10,000 low- and moderate-income residents throughout the Commonwealth.

Governor’s Statement on Community Development

Governor Youngkin emphasized the importance of these grants in strengthening Virginia’s communities. He stated, “The foundation of every thriving community includes affordable homes, robust infrastructure, and an economy that works for everyone.

CDBG continues to be an invaluable resource for addressing community-identified needs by filling in crucial funding gaps to build stronger communities across the Commonwealth.”

Administration of the CDBG Program

Since 1982, the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) has administered the federally funded CDBG program.

Annually, it receives approximately $19 million to distribute to small cities, counties, and towns.

These funds enable localities to provide new or improved water and sewer systems in rural areas, rehabilitate housing in declining neighborhoods, revitalize commercial districts, and establish facilities for essential services, such as healthcare clinics in underserved regions.

Diverse Impact Across the Commonwealth

The 33 awarded projects address a wide range of community goals, fostering strong local partnerships and enhancing the quality of life for Virginians.

Secretary of Commerce and Trade Caren Merrick noted, “While each of the 33 awarded projects supports vastly different community goals, they all foster strong local partnerships, diverse regional economies, and a higher quality of life for Virginians.

CDBG funding offers the flexibility needed to address the unique concerns of diverse communities while building a stronger, more cohesive Commonwealth.”

Examples of Funded Projects

Among the funded projects is the Belspring Estates initiative in Pulaski County, which received $47,159. This project focuses on housing rehabilitation to improve living conditions for residents.

Additionally, the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore was granted $100,000 for a services expansion project, aiming to enhance food distribution and support to underserved communities.

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Long-Term Benefits of CDBG Funding

Bryan Horn, Director of the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development, highlighted the enduring impact of CDBG funding: “Community Development Block Grants have facilitated targeted support to Virginia’s communities for over 40 years, and their effects have been profound.

By investing in our communities, we can support them in the unique ways that they need, with solutions that include their residents’ unique voices, all while protecting vulnerable populations and building stronger local economies.”

Conclusion

The allocation of over $23.6 million in CDBG funds underscores Virginia’s commitment to fostering community development and addressing the diverse needs of its residents.

Through these grants, the Commonwealth aims to build stronger, more resilient communities equipped with the infrastructure and services necessary for all Virginians to thrive.

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