Several Third District communities to receive over $5 million in federal funding

Washington, D.C. – February 23, 2016 – (RealEstateRama) — Congresswoman Niki Tsongas announced today that Third District communities Fitchburg, Haverhill, Lawrence and Lowell will receive federal Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) to support housing rehabilitation, public service projects and local infrastructure.

“Community Development Block Grants are some of the most valuable tools cities have to promote economic development, modernize infrastructure, and respond flexibly to local challenges,” said Congresswoman Niki Tsongas. “Since coming to Congress, I have strongly supported funding the CDBG program at the level necessary to meet community needs, joining a coalition of my colleagues in urging Congressional support for the program. CDBG is one of the federal government’s most cost effective programs, enabling communities in my district, in Massachusetts and across America to leverage their resources to quickly respond to emerging needs. They’re an excellent investment in our communities and provide benefits well into the future.”

Fitchburg will receive $898,104; Haverhill will receive $875,511; Lawrence will receive $1,518,368; Lowell will receive $1,893,676. An additional $29,771,920 will be distributed by the Commonwealth’s Department of Housing and Community Development to other eligible communities.

Fitchburg Mayor Stephen L. DiNatale said: “The CDBG program is extremely necessary to provide assistance with addressing all aspects of activities and development in our local communities.”

Lawrence Mayor Dan Rivera said: “CDBG is the funding for much of what we do in our effort to make Lawrence Better. It is very important to Lawrence because of its flexibility. With our grant we help local businesses with loan guarantees, build parks and playgrounds, rehab houses, and support approximately 15 social service agencies – creating economic opportunity and stronger neighborhoods.”

Lowell City Manager Kevin Murphy said: “CDBG funds are a very important tool for many key projects in Lowell. These monies are also crucial to support projects serving our low and moderate income residents.”

Congresswoman Tsongas has long supported federal funding for local economic development projects and organizations, including Community Development Block Grants (CDBG), and she has advocated for and helped secure numerous such grants across the Third District.