When disaster strikes, communities often face a long and complex road to recovery. One of the critical tools available to support this recovery is the Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) program. Administered by the U.S. Department of Housing
and Urban Development (HUD), CDBG-DR provides flexible funding to help communities rebuild and recover after presidentially declared disasters.
What is CDBG-DR?
CDBG-DR is a subset of HUD’s larger CDBG program. Unlike regular CDBG funding, which is primarily aimed at community development projects, CDBG-DR is allocated specifically for disaster recovery efforts. These grants are essential for addressing unmet needs after other federal assistance, such as FEMA or insurance, has been applied.
Key Funding Processes
The allocation process for CDBG-DR funding involves several steps, and understanding these is critical for successfully managing the funds:
Federal Declaration and Appropriation: CDBG-DR funds are only available after a presidential disaster declaration. Congress must then appropriate funding for specific disasters.
Action Plan Submission: Each grantee (usually state or local governments) must submit an Action Plan to HUD outlining how they plan to use the funds. The plan must meet CDBG-DR objectives, including supporting low- to moderate-income populations.
Environmental Reviews: All projects must undergo an environmental review process to ensure compliance with federal regulations before funds are disbursed.
Ongoing Monitoring and Compliance: Once projects are underway, grantees must adhere to strict reporting, compliance, and audit requirements to ensure funds are used properly.
Importance in Long-Term Recovery
CDBG-DR is more than just a source of funding—it’s a vital tool for rebuilding resilient communities. This program supports everything from housing and infrastructure restoration to economic revitalization and mitigation projects designed to reduce future risks. It allows communities the flexibility to tailor their recovery efforts based on local needs, which is crucial for long-term success.
At Metric Consulting, we specialize in navigating the complexities of CDBG-DR funding. From action plan development to compliance and closeout, we ensure that communities can maximize their grant opportunities while maintaining full regulatory compliance. With the right expertise, CDBG-DR can be a powerful catalyst for recovery and rebuilding.
Contact us today and find out more about how we can assist your community in maximizing available funds.