Governor Josh Stein, alongside the North Carolina Department of Commerce, has announced the allocation of over $13.7 million in grants to 13 local governments. These grants aim to support housing, infrastructure, and community improvement initiatives targeting low- and moderate-income residents across the state. The funding is provided through the Community Development Block Grant – Neighborhood Revitalization (CDBG-NR) program. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance community resilience and quality of life.
The CDBG-NR program is federally funded and offers municipalities and counties the chance to address specific community needs. Through investments in areas such as housing rehabilitation, infrastructure, and public facilities, the program seeks to improve living conditions for low and moderate-income North Carolinians. These grants align with the state’s First in Opportunity Strategic Economic Development Plan, which prioritizes community strengthening and housing expansion. In addition, the awards support Governor Stein’s Executive Order No. 36, focusing on increasing access to safe, affordable housing.
This latest round of funding comprises 13 projects, with awards ranging from $693,773 to $2.5 million. The projects span various local priorities, including housing improvements, infrastructure upgrades, and community development efforts. Among the recipients, Bladen County received the highest award of $2.5 million, while other communities like Beaufort County and the Town of Beulaville received $950,000 each. The grants are part of a continued investment strategy aimed at fostering economic growth and community resilience.
Assistant Secretary for Rural Economic Development Reginald Speight emphasized the importance of local leadership in directing these funds, stating that communities are best positioned to determine impactful investments. Since 2017, the CDBG-NR program has awarded $175.8 million in North Carolina, promoting adequate housing and expanded economic opportunities. The program mandates that at least 70 percent of grant funds benefit low and moderate-income households.
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