Community Development Block Grant
Program Description:
In 1974, the federal government enacted the Federal Housing and Community Development Act. Title I of the Act combined several funding programs into a single program called "Community Development Block Grant" (CDBG). Congress designed the CDBG program to enhance and maintain the viability of urban communities. The CDBG program accomplishes these goals by providing decent housing, suitable living environments and expanded economic opportunities; principally for low-and moderate-income persons. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) administers the CDBG program through state and local governments.
Communities receiving CDBG block grants are free to develop their own programs and funding priorities based on local community development needs. However, these "entitlement communities" must promote the national CDBG objectives by giving the highest funding priority to activities which benefit low-and moderate-income persons, or which aid in the elimination and prevention of slums and blight. Under certain circumstances, CDBG funds may be used as urgent need to address an immediate threat to public health and safety. CDBG activities must adhere to federal eligibility requirements to ensure consistency with the national objectives.
Program Guidelines
Federal regulations define the parameters for using CDBG funds according to the national objectives. They also specify eligible program activities. Copies of these regulations are available on HUD’s website at: http://www.hud.gov/offices/cpd/lawsregs/.
- Eligible activities include acquisition of real property for an eligible use, construction and rehabilitation of public facilities, demolition and clearance of deteriorated buildings, community services for low-and moderate-income persons or households, removal of barriers that restrict the mobility of elderly and severely disabled adults, and special economic development activities.
- Ineligible activities include construction of religious facilities or government buildings, new housing construction, equipment purchases, maintenance and operation expenses, political or religious proselytizing, and fund raising.
CDBG Application and Instructions:
Our CDBG funds are awarded annually through a competitive application process. CDBG staff, of which include the Assistant Director and Strategic Community Program Coordinator, in addition to the CDBG Community Advisory Committee, will review all proposals for eligibility and rate the proposals based on their consistency with the national CDBG objectives, the strategies and goals of the City’s adopted Five-Year Consolidated Plan, and the non-profit’s impact in the community.
Once selected, a subrecipient agreement will be established between the City and the Grantee. The subrecipient agreement is a legal requirement and will serve as an essential management tool for measuring the subrecipients’ performance and regulatory compliance. The subrecipient will be responsible for maintaining documentation related to the agreement and other program requirements.
Subrecipients are also required to attend CDBG Orientation, Trainings/Workshops, and Technical Assistance sessions. The goal of these workshops is to provide continued education and support on the basic rules and regulations governing CDBG activities, enhance subrecipient management, improve program outcomes, and ensure the effective use of CDBG funds. We want to Ensure success of programs and projects; address challenges, concerns, contribute to solutions, and ensure transparency, by reviewing follow up items, program changes, etc.
Community Development Block Grant Application Kit
Program Goals:
The City of Atlantic City funds organizations who exemplify the capacity to provide benefits to low- and moderate-income persons within the City, to eliminate and prevent slums and blight, to deliver services in times of emergencies, and to address urgent needs for the City.
CDBG, plays an important role in ensuring that the city meets the planning and development needs of all members within the community, through the administration of a plethora of community economic development programs and projects.
As CDBG, we empower organizations to foster collaborative thinking to further drive community innovation. By closing the loop and leveraging frameworks, we help organizations grow organically and foster a community-first mindset. We promote safe, affordable homes and vibrant, inclusive, sustainable communities for all residents of Atlantic City.
Collectively, our goal is Empowering our community to drive sustainable growth, create jobs, and the enhance quality of life for our residents. This approach aims to strengthen local economies and improve the well-being of communities. Additionally, it emphasizes the active involvement and participation of community members in shaping the economic development initiatives and decisions that affect their lives.
Community Economic Development is not just about attracting outside investments; it is about nurturing local entrepreneurship, fostering innovation, and promoting equitable economic development that benefits everyone. CED offers numerous sustainable benefits within the community, ensuring that communities shape their local economic future.
CDBG Projects:
- City Hall Courtyard
- Affordable Housing 38 N. Texas Atlantic City NJ (3 Single Family Homes)
- Youth Mural (Aquarium exterior)
- Youth Mural (Aquarium interior)
- Youth Mural Projects (City Hall Floors 2 thru 6)
- Chicken Bone Beach Foundation Parking Lot
- Weekes Park
- MLK Playground / Lighting
- Pop Lloyd Stadium
- Boxing Hall of Fame Midtown City Park Development (pending)
- Altman Ave. Dog Park
CDBG Public Services Projects:
- Atlantic City Ballet Co.
- Chicken Bone Beach Foundation
- City o Atlantic City Recreation Department
- City o Atlantic City Senior Services
- City o Atlantic City Re Entry Services
- City o Atlantic City Youth Services
- City o Atlantic City Department of Health & Human Services – Homeless
- City of Atlantic City Special Events
- Boxing Hall of Fame Programming
✔️ Sub Recipient Workshops (Pre and Post)
✔️ Advisory Committee