Congressman Jesse Jackson Jr. announced
today that the City of Harvey received a $185,000 federal grant for a neighborhood
stabilization pilot program.
The Economic Development Initiative (EDI)
grant, awarded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development,
will enable Harvey to rehabilitate older housing stock for first-time homeowners
and demolish blighted properties.
'I am excited about this program because
it shows that the federal government can be responsive to local needs,'
Jackson said.
'This program is a culmination of several
months talks between the City and HUD,' Jackson said. 'It began a couple
of years ago when Harvey assembled a comprehensive neighborhood improvement
plan. Unfortunately, the proposal didn't fit into any single HUD program.
But everyone kept talking until we tailored a pilot program that met HUD
guidelines and Harvey's needs.'
Mayor Nick Graves thanked the Congressman
for this leadership and support.
'This program addresses two of our greatest
needs,' Graves said. 'One, it will eliminate some unsafe and hazardous
housing stock. Two, it will allow us to rehab homes for first time homebuyers.
As we all know, home ownership creates pride in a community. It's a win-win
for Harvey.
Macelline Yearwood, a spokesman for HUD,
said the grant notice specifies that the money will be used for 'demolition
of vacant homes, land-banking of vacant properties and renovation of occupied
homes.'