The city of Guyton has received a 2015 community development block grant in the amount of $436,706 from the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, which administers the program on behalf of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
The city will utilize this grant for multi-infrastructure improvements on Whistle Stop Drive, Maggie’s Junction, Poplar Street and Bell’s Crossing. The grant application proposed drainage and sewer improvements, benefiting 93 persons, of whom 87 are low- to moderate-income. The application proposes $62,614 in match and leverage funds.
“Strong, vibrant communities help attract companies to the state,” said Gov. Nathan Deal. “The projects funded by this program will enhance the quality of life for Georgians while supporting job growth and economic development. By leveraging this funding with private investment and local funds, small and rural communities are able to maximize the opportunities afforded by the CDBG program and strengthen the foundation for a prosperous business climate.”
The grant award was presented to the City of Guyton by DCA Commissioner Camila Knowles and was accepted on behalf of the City of Guyton by Police Chief Kelphie Lundy, City Clerk Lauree Morris, Public Works Superintendent Michael O’Neal and Councilmen Franklin Goldwire in a ceremony hosted by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs in Jekyll Island on Sept. 11.
Guyton was one of 79 Georgia communities awarded this year.
Sixty-six Georgia communities received almost $31.9 million in CDBG funds for infrastructure improvements, neighborhood revitalization, and centers that will serve Georgia’s neediest citizens. In addition, $5.5 million in CDBG Employment Incentive Program (EIP) and Redevelopment Fund (RDF) funding was awarded to 13 Georgia communities to invest in economic development and redevelopment projects that are creating 640 jobs and more than $199 million in private investment.
Georgia’s CDBG program annually supports projects in Georgia’s small and rural communities that create jobs and assist low- and moderate-income citizens. Awards ranging from $282,435 to $800,000 will be used for specific projects such as water, sewer, drainage or street improvements, revitalization of targeted neighborhoods, and construction of health facilities, as well as senior citizen and youth centers.
“The history of the impact that the annual Community Development Block Grant awards have made on infrastructure, revitalization, and job creation and retention throughout Georgia is remarkable,” said DCA Commissioner Knowles. “The project application review process is a highly competitive one, and we appreciate the diligence that went into each community’s application.”
