Community Development Block Grants
The Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) administers the federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program in all of Iowa’s incorporated cities and counties, except those designated as HUD entitlement areas. Authorized under the Housing and Community Development Act, the main goal of the program is to “develop viable communities by providing decent housing and suitable living environments and expanding economic opportunities, principally for persons of low and moderate incomes.” All projects must meet the National Objectives as defined by HUD.
Community Facilities and Services
Assists projects such as day care facilities, senior centers, vocational workshops and storm water projects.
Comprehensive Neighborhood Revitalization Planning Fund
Provides assistance for neighborhood planning.
Downtown Revitalization Fund
Rehabilitates blighted downtown buildings.
Employment Transportation
Provides transportation for individuals to travel to job activities or job education opportunities.
Housing Rehabilitation
Assists communities with preserving existing housing stock and creating new housing opportunities.
Opportunities and Threats Fund
Funds reserved for communities facing an imminent threat to the public requiring immediate assistance.
Water and Sewer
Assists cities and counties with projects such as sewer, water and wastewater treatment system improvements, storm sewer projects and rural water connections.
Career Link
Assists low and moderate income individuals obtain the training and skills they need to move into available higher-skill, higher wage jobs.
All incorporated cities and all counties in the State, except those designated as HUD entitlement areas, are eligible to apply for and receive funds under this program. Eligible activities include public facilities (such as water and sewer facilities, and community buildings), housing rehabilitation, economic development and job training. State administrative rules for the program contain a complete listing of eligible activities. At least 70 percent of CDBG funds allocated to local governments will be used for activities that principally benefit low- and moderate-income persons. For these purposes, low and moderate-income persons means they have incomes at or below 80 percent of the area median income defined by HUD annually in March.
For more information contact Diana Johnson or Rachelle Howe.