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WASHINGTON, DC -- The House today accepted an amendment offered by Congressman Chaka Fattah to be included in the 2004 VA-HUD Appropriations spending bill. The amendment seeks to increase technical assistance funding for HOPE VI, a program geared towards revitalizing severely distressed public housing developments, transforming them into safe, livable environments.
“This provision takes a positive step in restoring funding levels for a HUD program that has proven to be beneficial for many neighborhoods across the country,” stated Congressman Fattah. “I am thankful that my colleagues realize the implications this program has on the nation’s most distressed communities.”
Congressman Fattah’s amendment would increase HOPE VI funding from $500,000 to $5 million for the upcoming fiscal year. The additional money will help local public housing authorities with technical assistance in implementing projects that HOPE VI grants fund. The Bush Administration has indicated concern over certain aspects of the program, particularly the ability for local public housing authorities to complete projects in a timely manner.
According to a HUD commissioned report, PHAs have learned how to implement the grants sooner, thereby improving their rate of production and reducing the time between grant execution and construction by 300 percent. An optimistic Fattah noted, “For the sake of every young child, we have the responsibility of ensuring promising communities to help nurture our youth.” |
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