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reading, PA to Request HUD Funds for Affordable Housing initiatives
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Reading, Pennsylvania, is set to request funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to support its Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program, focusing on affordable housing initiatives. mayor Eddie Moran announced that the city will submit the request around July 22, 2025, for the release of CDBG funds under Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 [1].
CDBG acquisition Rehab Resale/Rental Program
The primary project under this request is the CDBG Acquisition rehab Resale/Rental Program,spanning from 2024 to 2028. This initiative aims to provide safe, affordable housing options throughout Reading by acquiring, rehabilitating, and then reselling or renting properties. The program intends to address housing shortages and improve living conditions for residents.
Did You Know? The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) was established in 1965 as part of President Lyndon B. Johnson’s “Great Society” program, aiming to address housing and urban development issues.
Project Details and Funding
For the fiscal year 2025, the project has an estimated cost of $250,000. The city anticipates continuing to fund this program at the same level from 2025 to 2028, with a total estimated project cost of $1,000,000 across those years. These funds will be allocated to advance affordable housing goals within the city [2].
The activities proposed are categorically excluded under HUD regulations at 24 CFR Part 58 from National environmental Policy Act (NEPA) requirements.
Pro Tip: Reviewing the Environmental Review Record (ERR) can provide valuable insights into the project’s potential environmental impacts and mitigation measures.
Environmental Review and Public Comments
An Environmental Review Record (ERR) documenting the environmental determinations for this project is available for public examination at Reading City Hall, Community Development Department, 815 washington St., Reading, PA. Interested parties can review the record on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The review is also available electronically by request to Neil Nemeth at neil.nemeth@readingpa.gov.
The City of reading is encouraging public input on the ERR.Any individual, group, or agency can submit written comments to the Community Development Department at the address above or call (610) 655-6423. All comments received by July 21, 2025, will be considered before the city authorizes the submission of the request for release of funds.
Objections to Fund Release
HUD will consider objections to the release of funds and the City of Reading’s certification for 15 days following the anticipated submission date or its actual receipt of the request, whichever is later. Objections must be based on specific criteria, including:
- The certification was not executed by the Certifying Officer.
- The City of reading omitted a step required by HUD regulation at 24 CFR Part 58.
- Funds were committed or activities undertaken before HUD approval.
- Another Federal agency found the project environmentally unsatisfactory.
Objections must be prepared and submitted according to 24 CFR Part 58, Sec.58.76 and addressed to the Philadelphia Office of Community Planning and Development at CPDRROFPHI@hud.gov. Potential objectors should contact HUD/State to verify the objection period’s deadline.
Projected Timeline and Costs
The following table summarizes the projected timeline and costs for the CDBG Acquisition Rehab Resale/rental Program:
| Program year | Estimated Cost | Activities |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | $0 | No activities completed |
| 2025 | $250,000 | Acquisition, Rehab, Resale/Rental |
| 2026-2028 | $250,000 per year | Acquisition, Rehab, Resale/Rental |
| total (2024-2028) | $1,000,000 | Program Total |
Understanding Community Development Block Grants (CDBG)
Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) are federal funds provided to local governments and states to address a wide range of community development needs.
