NC Awards $13.7M in Grants for Housing and Infrastructure Projects

In a bid to uplift communities across North Carolina, Governor Josh Stein, alongside the state’s Department of Commerce, has declared a major funding initiative aimed at bolstering local housing, infrastructure, and community projects. The initiative, which amounts to over $13.7 million, is set to benefit 13 local governments, enhancing the lives of low- and moderate-income residents through the Community Development Block Grant – Neighborhood Revitalization (CDBG-NR) program.

Governor Josh Stein emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “North Carolinians need safe housing, reliable infrastructure, and places to enjoy.” He noted that the grants are designed to improve neighborhoods, invigorate local economies, and enhance the quality of life across the state.

The CDBG-NR program is funded federally and empowers eligible counties and municipalities to address specific community needs. Through targeted investments in areas such as housing rehabilitation, infrastructure, public facilities, and neighborhood enhancements, communities can address local priorities while building resilience and improving life quality for residents with low to moderate incomes.

Lee Lilley, North Carolina Commerce Secretary, commented on the impact of these funds, saying, “CDBG-NR funding provides local leaders with the resources they need to invest in housing, infrastructure, and public facilities that support long-term prosperity.”

This funding aligns with North Carolina’s First in Opportunity Strategic Economic Development Plan and Governor Stein’s Executive Order No. 36, focusing on expanding housing opportunities and economic growth.

The current funding round offers a total of $13,743,773 to 13 projects, with grants ranging from $693,773 to $2.5 million. These projects focus on diverse local priorities such as housing rehabilitation, infrastructure enhancement, and community development.

The 13 communities receiving funds:

Reginald Speight, Assistant Secretary for Rural Economic Development, remarked, “Communities know best where investments can make the greatest difference.” He noted that these grants offer local leaders the flexibility to meet critical needs and invest strategically to improve residents’ quality of life.

Since 2017, the CDBG-NR program has distributed $175.8 million in grants across North Carolina, aiming to provide adequate housing, improve living conditions, and expand economic opportunities. A minimum of 70% of the grant funds must benefit low and moderate-income households. More details on the CDBG-NR program are available at commerce.nc.gov/cdbg.