CUOMO ANNOUNCES $611,000 IN HUD HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT FUNDS FOR JONESBORO, ARKANSAS

WASHINGTON - Housing and Urban Development Secretary Andrew Cuomo today announced $611,000 in HUD grants for housing and community development programs in Jonesboro, Arkansas.

"These funds will go toward community-based solutions to the housing and economic development challenges Jonesboro faces," Cuomo said. "We are funding a comprehensive strategy to create jobs and affordable housing, and help homeless people become self-sufficient."

Under Jonesboro's 1998 Consolidated Plan, which was approved by HUD, the city will receive $611,000 in Community Development Block Grant funds.

Among the housing and community development efforts to be funded by the city this year are: substandard housing demolition; a police sub-station; and drainage and sewer improvements.

The Consolidated Planning process, developed by Cuomo when he served as HUD Assistant Secretary for Community Planning and Development, ensures that local residents have strong input into the creation of comprehensive, community-based housing and economic development plans. The streamlined process gives communities maximum local flexibility, while reducing burdensome regulatory requirements. Local HUD staff are empowered to work closely with communities to customize Consolidated Plans and help them realize their housing and economic development goals.