The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program provides flexible funding to carry out a wide range of community development activities directed toward neighborhood revitalization, economic development, and improved community facilities/services. Beginning in 1974, the CDBG program is one of the longest continuously run programs at HUD. All CDBG-funded activities must meet one of the following national objectives: (1) Benefit low- and moderate-income persons; (2) Aid in the prevention or elimination of slums and blight; or (3) Meet certain community development needs having a particular urgency.
The following objectives guide the distribution and use of funds:
- Potential for long-term positive impact and increase in community self-sufficiency
- Reduction of clear and imminent threats and conditions detrimental to the health and safety of local residents.
- Construction and improvement of public facilities and the reduction of maintenance and operation costs
- Development and use of design, engineering, architectural, or feasibility plans as appropriate
- Economic development—including business development, job creation, and planning
- Evidence of strong local support, i.e., inclusion in a local community, economic, or capital improvement plan
- Use of local resources in combination with CDBG funding
NOTE: The State of Alaska has chosen to consider only those projects which meet the first national objective. Funding is therefore primarily targetted to Community Development and Planning projects. This includes
- Public Facilities – CDBG funds may be used for Health Clinics; Daycare Centers; Homeless Shelters; Water & Sewer Systems; Solid Waste Disposal Facilities; Flood & Drainage Facilities; Docks & Harbors; Acquisition; Electrical Distribution Lines; Fuel & Gas Distribution Systems
- Transportation Improvements - CDBG funds may be used for Local Service Roads; Boardwalks; Barge Facilities; Airports
- Access to Public Facilities & Structures - CDBG funds may be used for - Removal of architectural barriers in conjunction with current renovations; Improve access for handicapped and elderly persons
- Real Property - CDBG funds may be used for – Acquisition; Building Removal; Improvements; Clearance; Demolition
- Fire Protection Facilities & Equipment - CDBG funds may be used for – Acquisition; Design; Construction; Rehabilitation; Purchase
Funding is also available for Special Economic Development projects, which assist commercial, industrial, or other businesses and organizations that provide an overall economic benefit to low and moderate income communities. Economic Development applicants must document the proposed project provides a public benefit, including (1) Creates or retains at least one full-time equivalent permanent job per no more than $50,000 of CDBG funding used; or (2) Provides goods or services to residents of an area in which the number of low- and moderate income persons served equals no more than $1,000 of CDBG funds used per resident.