Macomb County, MI
09/12/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/12/2024 15:15
Community Development Block Grant program invests millions of dollars in Macomb County through 50-year effort
Macomb County Planning and Economic Development (MCPED) recently celebrated the 50th anniversary of the county's Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program, a federal initiative that provides essential funding to communities that can address infrastructure, economic development and housing needs. The celebration occurred during MCPED's quarterly partner meeting, where local stakeholders, initiatives and projects were highlighted and overall impact was discussed.
"This was a great opportunity to share the success of our CDBG program with some of our shareholders across Macomb County who have worked arm-in-arm to make a difference in their communities," MCPED Director Vicky Rowinski said. "We are very proud of the work we've done improving the quality of life through various projects across Macomb County."
Enacted by Congress in 1974, the program distributes annual grants on a formula basis to states, cities and counties to develop viable urban communities by providing decent housing and a suitable living environment, and by expanding economic opportunities, principally for low- and moderate-income persons.
Notable Macomb County CDBG efforts across its 50-year history include:
"This was a great opportunity to share the success of our CDBG program with some of our shareholders across Macomb County who have worked arm-in-arm to make a difference in their communities," MCPED Director Vicky Rowinski said. "We are very proud of the work we've done improving the quality of life through various projects across Macomb County."
Enacted by Congress in 1974, the program distributes annual grants on a formula basis to states, cities and counties to develop viable urban communities by providing decent housing and a suitable living environment, and by expanding economic opportunities, principally for low- and moderate-income persons.
Notable Macomb County CDBG efforts across its 50-year history include:
- Facilitation of the Macomb County Housing Rehabilitation Program, which has spent a total of $4,763,167 to rehab 443 homes across the region.
- Construction of the Sterling Heights Senior Center in 2005. Additional dollars have been used to make parking lot improvements and to install an outdoor fitness area.
- Expansion of the Owen Jax Recreation Center in Warren. The city had acquired North Bay Machinery which was adjacent to the existing recreation center. After demolition and a clean up, the city created a new park and green space. They also renovated the existing gym with the center.
- Funding of the Clinton Township Adaptive Softball Program, a league for special needs adults who might need some type of accommodation to play.
- Installation of lighting in Eastpointe, which saw solar lights added on the right of way in residential neighborhoods at mid- block locations for the safety of residents.
- Revitalization of Roxana Park in Eastpointe, where CDBG funded the majority of a $135,000 project. The city engaged residents in the decision-making process for improvements, and ultimately new play equipment, picnic tables and a pavilion were installed.
"Before the Roxana Park project started, the site had an old slide and swing set without any swings," said Gary Sasek, chair, Eastpointe Parks Commission. "Since the new play equipment was installed, the neighborhood has been constantly using that park. It's been such a boost to the community. And for me, the best part was the installation of the pavilion, as I regularly see birthday parties, family reunions and more hosted there."
To learn more about the Macomb County planning and CDBG program, visit https://www.macombgov.org/departments/planning-and-economic-development/community-planning-services.
Vicky Rowinski
[email protected]
586-469-5065
Department:Planning and Economic Development
Type:
Press Release