Local Areas Awarded $1.2 Million in CDBG Funds

NASHVILLE (November 13) — Governor Bill Lee and Deputy Governor and Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development (TNECD) Commissioner Stuart C. McWhorter announced 44 communities will receive Community Development Block Grants (CDBG), totaling $26.5 million statewide, to assist with infrastructure and beautification improvements.

McKenzie and Gleason were two local communities awarded with the grants. McKenzie received $814,894 for water system improvements, and Gleason received $400,000 for sewer system improvements.

McKenzie Mayor Ryan Griffin extended his thanks to TNECD for the grant and said the $814,894 will be used to extend fire hydrants to the sewer plant.

“This support will help us provide needed fire protection for our sewer plant, and we’re excited for what it means for the safety and growth of our community,” said Mayor Griffin.

Gleason Mayor Charles Anderson said the grant money will go toward “wastewater infrastructure improvements throughout our town that are desperately needed.”

“We are extremely grateful that our application was carefully considered and awarded,” said Mayor Anderson. “Working with our city engineer and contractor, we pledge to use these funds in the most efficient and effective ways. These opportunities don’t come along often.”

Mayor Anderson extended his thanks to grant writers at Northwest Development District in Martin.

“Ensuring that our local infrastructure is equipped to meet the demands of future economic development is a top priority for our administration,” said Governor Lee.

The allocation of CDBG funds is based on priorities set through the public meeting process at the local community level. The CDBG program is funded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and administered by TNECD. Funds are available for water and sewer improvements, health and safety projects and other improvements to enhance the quality of life in Tennessee’s rural communities.