1. Comprehensive planning projects that direct utility development and improvements toward existing communities.
2. Public facility projects that address sewer and water needs on a regional basis.
3. Affordable housing projects.
4. Architectural barrier removal projects that improve handicap access to public buildings.

Funding for these projects is provided through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and Home Investments Partnership (HOME) Programs.

Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)

The Board of Commissioners receives an annual CDBG allocation of approximately $450,000 to benefit municipalities and community organizations within the county. Projects must meet at least one of the national objectives established by the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development:

1. Benefit a low & moderate income (LMI) population of at least 51%.
2. Prevent or eliminate a blight area such as an abandoned polluted industrial site.
3. Eliminate a situation that threatens community health & safety such as natural disaster remediation.

Applicants should also consider the following items when selecting a project for CDBG funding:

· Projects must meet at least one of the community development objectives listed above.
· Projects benefiting LMI persons require completion of a community survey.
· Applicants should not submit grant applications that exceed $200,000. If your project exceeds $200,000, consider phasing the project over several years.
· All projects must undergo an Environmental Review by FCPC staff before funds can be released. Please consider environmental impacts of the project when applying for CDBG funds.
· Public facility construction/improvement applicants must present at least preliminary project specifications, cost estimates, and drawings prepared by a certified engineering firm.

The annual CDBG allocation generally follows the timeline listed below.

December Public meeting to review Community Development objectives and the CDBG application process.

January Deadline for CDBG applications. FCPC staff rank the applications on a 100-point scale & provide recommendations to the Board of Commissioners.

February The Board of Commissioners hold public hearings to receive comments regarding the applications. The county's CDBG application is submitted to the PA Department of Community & Economic Development.

The Board of Commissioners partners with non-profit housing development agencies to meet the affordable housing needs of county residents. Through these efforts we have been successful in obtaining more than $1 million from the HOME program to assist low & moderate income families obtain their own home. The PA Department of Community & Economic Development awards HOME grants to the county on a competitive basis and does not follow a funding schedule. Please contact us to discuss your affordable housing project ideas before completing a HOME application.