Jeremy Alford

Housing money heading to Lafayette

by Jeremy Alford

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development is sending roughly $2.4 million to Lafayette for special housing developments. The cash will arrive in two allotments: one Community Development Block Grant totaling $1.6 million and one HOME program grant for nearly $800,000.

The CDBG Program allows state and local governments to create suitable living environments, provide affordable housing and create economic opportunities, specifically for low- and moderate-income families. The HOME program provides grants to state and local governments to help fund housing programs for low- to very low-income families that meet the community needs and priorities.

Lafayette City-Parish President Joey Durel says the money will fill a noticeable void in the community. “These funds help to develop, sustain and revitalize our communities, improve the quality of life for our citizens and provide home ownership opportunities, which is important for our citizens, our neighborhoods, and our community,” he says.

Sen. Mary Landrieu, D-New Orleans, who announced the grants Thursday, adds that the support from HUD will be a significant source of funding for the workforce housing initiatives in Lafayette. “Expanding home ownership and providing safe housing for hard-working Louisiana families will always be a priority,” she says, “because it is essential for positive community development.”