Bipartisan Group Introduces Resolution Commemorating 40 Years of CDBG

WASHINGTON, July 15, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- A bipartisan group of Congressmen introduced a resolution today commemorating the 40^th   anniversary of Community Development Block Grants (CDBG). Led by Democrats Chaka Fattah (PA-02), Jim McGovern (MA-02), and Robert Brady (PA-01), and Republicans Michael Turner (OH-10), Lou Barletta (PA-11), and Christopher Gibson (NY-19), H. Res. 668 acknowledges the program's success in strengthening local communities across the country.

Since the program was created in 1974, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has invested over $145 billion in urban, suburban, and rural economies; creating jobs, building affordable housing, funding disaster relief efforts, and supporting economic development and infrastructure projects.

"Community Development Block Grants are an indispensable source of funding to state and local governments across our country," Congressman Chaka Fattah said.  "For four decades they have allowed communities to invest in the areas that need it most: revitalizing neighborhoods, creating jobs, and strengthening infrastructure. CDBG remains one of the most successful grant programs in our country's history. It is important to reflect on the program's success investing in America's cities and towns, while committing our support to its continued impact."

"I was proud to join my Urban Caucus Co-Chair, Congressman Chaka Fattah, to author this resolution and highlight the success of the Community Development Block Grant program," said Congressman Mike Turner. "Over the last forty years, this bipartisan program has successfully developed key infrastructure, spurred private investment, and provided access to safe and affordable housing for countless Americans. CDBG will continue to equip state and local leaders with the tools, flexibility, and power necessary to confront the distinct economic challenges in their communities."

Among the longest running grant programs in the country's history, CDBG has been a reliable source for local governments, offering them a flexibility to steer funds where they are needed most based on the individual and unique circumstances of the community. HUD estimates that between 2005 and 2013 the program was responsible for creating or retaining approximately 330,500 jobs, providing public services to more than 100 million individuals, and assisting more than 1 million households.

"For 40 years, the CDBG program has been an invaluable tool for local and state governments as they undertake the transformative projects necessary to strengthen and revitalize local communities," said Congressman Jim McGovern. "In my district, CDBG funding has supported local neighborhood projects, housing developments, and parks, while also creating and retaining jobs." 

"The Community Development Block Grant program is one of the most efficient federal programs because of the flexibility it allows states in meeting the unique needs of local communities," said Congressman Chris Gibson.  "I saw the benefits of this first-hand when my district was struck by Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee in 2011, and I am proud to be a champion of this program in Congress."

"The progress in Philadelphia is proof that the CDBG program not only works, but transforms local communities," said Congressman Robert Brady. "I strongly support the CDBG program because it ensures that individuals in our communities have access to affordable housing and good paying jobs."

"As the former mayor of Hazleton, PA, I know how important projects supported by Community Development Block Grants are to localities. They can be used for a variety of local purposes, including providing affordable housing, and supporting the construction, maintenance, and conversion of neighborhood centers," Congressman Lou Barletta said.  "CDBGs help reclaim old school buildings and fund the preservation and restoration of historic properties in low-income neighborhoods.  I am proud to support the program, which directs much-needed funding to the areas that need it most."

The resolution has been endorsed by the Community Development Block Grant Coalition, a group of national organizations representing local elected officials, state and local CDBG and HOME practitioners, and nonprofit organizations that receive CDBG and HOME funds locally.

SOURCE Office of Congressman Chaka Fattah