Neighborhood Preservation

Friday, 04 November 2005 22:33

Article Index
Neighborhood Preservation
Page #
All Pages

Page 1 of 2

For Immediate Release
June 3, 2002
For Further Information, Contact:
John Patella, DCA, 609-292-6055

State Announces $3 Million In Neighborhood Grants

Governor James E. McGreevey and Community Affairs Commissioner Susan Bass Levin today announced the award of more than $3 million to help revitalize 24 neighborhoods in communities across the state.

The assistance includes funding from the Department of Community Affairs as well as from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development under DCA's Neighborhood Preservation Program. Under the Neighborhood Preservation Program, neighborhoods deemed as "threatened but viable" are provided with $525,000 in state funds over five years to undertake improvements, primarily to housing and infrastructure. They are also eligible for additional, federal funds.

"These funds are the fuel that drives a comprehensive, local neighborhood improvement plan," said DCA Commissioner Susan Bass Levin. "This isn't just about fixing up houses. It's about repairing spirits and restoring community pride."

The NPP initiative offers a multi-year commitment of financial and technical assistance to meet goals outlined by local officials and neighborhood residents. It provides $125,000 in state funds in the first year and up to $100,000 in state funds each of the following four years. In addition, the neighborhoods may receive funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development that supplement the DCA program.

Today's announcement of $3.1 million represents $1.9 million in state funds, and $1.2 million in federal funds.

The money provided to participating neighborhoods in the NPP program goes to support a wide range of local initiatives, including housing rehabilitation, improvements to playgrounds, parks, sidewalks, streets, site acquisition and educational initiatives. In addition, a state-assigned program manager works to bring municipal government, local residents and private sector interests together, strengthening a relationship that remains even after the program term has ended.

A total of 34 communities throughout the state currently participate in the NPP program.

Merchantville received $100,000 for the West End Neighborhood.
The West Maple Neighborhood Program Manager is Denise Brouse.

Prev - Next >>

< Prev		Next >