Community Development Block Grant
The CDBG Program is designed to reach the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Developments three statutory goals:
- Provide decent housing
- Provide a suitable living environment
- Expand economic opportunities
Included in the approved activities for Fiscal Year 2005:
Homeownership Programs—Funding can be used to support the acquisition or construction of properties for sale at an affordable price to homeowners. Also included in this funding stream are programs that teach budgeting and home maintenance skills to new and first-time homebuyers.
Owner-Occupied Housing Rehabilitation Funding can be used to acquire property for rehabilitation or otherwise improve the existing housing stock.
The City of Winchester received a $924,000 Community Improvement Grant from the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (VDHCD). The purpose of the grant is to enhance the downtown area, specifically the North Cameron/Kent Street Corridor, through demolition, renovation, new construction and streetscape improvements. The implementation of this project will remove 100% of the blighting influences in the project area. Specific contract activities include:
- Demolition of three structures and an addition to the George Washington Hotel.
- Construction of a 30,950 sq. ft. Our Health facility.
- Renovation of an historic train depot.
- Facade improvements on four buildings.
- Installation of streetlights, sidewalks, walkways and landscaping in the project area.