The Missouri Department of Economic Development (DED) has just announced an award of over $16.7 million, in grants to 43 local projects through the Community Development Block Grant Program, according to a release. This considerable influx of funds is aimed at enhancing community development and public safety across the state. The awarded projects cover a spectrum of needs including street repairs, public facility construction, and both residential and commercial demolition.
Among the projects highlighted is a major street construction initiative in the City of Boonville, which has been allocated a significant $500,000, while the City of Maryville will be seeing a new fire truck thanks to a similar grant amount. "Every grant awarded is addressing critical needs, including public safety, while making communities stronger," Governor Mike Kehoe said in a statement, accordinmg to Missouri Department of Economic Development.
Funds for the 2025 Competitive Cycle were rechanneled, following an amendment to the CDBG Action Plan of 2024, a move precipitated by varied project demands and a shift in funding focus. More than $4 million, originally earmarked for Water/Wastewater and Economic Development projects, has been reallocated specifically for demolition and street projects to better align with the State’s Consolidated Plan.
Michelle Hataway, Director of the DED, touted the program's reach. "The CDBG Program is an invaluable resource for communities and an important way we help Missourians prosper," Hataway stated adding, "Each project made possible by CDBG, whether large or small, is increasing capacity for economic growth that changes lives for the better." This sentiment exemplifies the goals of the CDBG program, which aims to enhance the welfare of Missouri communities and expand opportunities for growth and prosperity, as per the Missouri Department of Economic Development.
For those looking to gain deeper insights into the awarded grants or to explore future community development possibilities, detailed information and a full list of recipients can be accessed via the DED’s official website at ded.mo.gov.
