Cohen Announces $250K for Memphis Housing Authority

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Congressman Steve Cohen (D-TN) today announced the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has awarded $250,000 to the Memphis Housing Authority to assist communities in developing a successful neighborhood transformation plan and building support necessary for that plan to be effectively implemented. The funds were distributed through the FY 2010 Choice Neighborhoods Planning Grants Program.

“Improving quality, affordable housing during these tough economic times is vital for Memphis,” said Congressman Cohen. “These new federal funds will help improve some of our city’s most struggling communities and contribute to the revitalization of our great city.”

The Choice Neighborhoods initiative will transform distressed neighborhoods and public and assisted projects into viable and sustainable mixed-income neighborhoods by linking housing improvements with appropriate services, schools, public assets, transportation, and access to jobs. A strong emphasis will be placed on local community planning for access to high-quality educational opportunities, including early childhood education.

Choice Neighborhoods grants will build upon the successes of public housing transformation under HOPE VI to provide support for the preservation and rehabilitation of public and HUD-assisted housing, within the context of a broader approach to concentrated poverty. In addition to public housing authorities, the initiative will involve local governments, non-profits, and for-profit developers in undertaking comprehensive local planning with residents and the community.