VICE PRESIDENT GORE ANNOUNCES $25.4 MILLION IN HUD HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT FUNDS FOR THE CITY OF MIAMI

DEERFIELD BEACH, FL - Vice President Al Gore today announced $25.4 million in Department of Housing and Urban Development grants to the City of Miami for programs to create jobs, expand the supply of affordable housing and help homeless people become self-sufficient.

"These funds will help provide community-based solutions to the housing and economic development challenges facing Miami," Vice President Gore said. "We are funding a comprehensive strategy to create jobs and affordable housing, and to help homeless individuals become self-sufficient."

"Today's announcement is further evidence of the strong commitment by President Clinton and Vice President Gore to help revitalize America's cities, to help business prosper and to create good jobs for American workers," HUD Secretary Andrew Cuomo said. "The City of Miami has produced an excellent comprehensive plan for housing and community development and HUD is proud to continue its partnership in helping the people of Miami."

Under the City of Miami's 1998 Consolidated Plan, which was approved by HUD, Miami will receive $12.65 million in Community Development Block Grant funds; $4.52 million under the HOME Investment Partnership program; $7.73 million under the HOPWA program (Housing Opportunities for Persons With AIDS); and $501,000 in Emergency Shelter Grant funds for homeless programs. Miami will apply the funding toward various activities including housing rehabilitation, first-time homebuyer assistance programs, public services, economic development, affordable housing, and homeless assistance.

Miami's Consolidated Planning process, based on a model established by HUD, 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. City officials and HUD staff are empowered to work closely with communities to customize Consolidated Plans and help them realize their housing and economic development goals.