FRANKFORT, KY (June 5, 2008) – The city of Mayfield is one of nine Kentucky communities recently awarded a grant to assist in the rehabilitation of dilapidated houses for needy citizens.  Gov. Steve Beshear, in conjunction with the Governor’s Office for Local Development (GOLD), has announced the approval of a $1,000,000 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) for a scattered site housing project targeting low income, disabled, and elderly homeowners in Mayfield.  

The scope of the project includes the clearance and reconstruction of at least 17 Low and Moderate Income (LMI) owner-occupied structures.  All of the selected sites have been inspected and determined to be deteriorated beyond repair. 

The rehabilitation projects will address multiple safety and health hazards including unstable or failing foundations.  Due to the age of the homes to be reconstructed, lead-based paint, interior mold and asbestos are all concerns that will be addressed.

“I strongly believe safe, sanitary housing is a basic right to which all Kentuckians are entitled,” said Governor Beshear.  “This Mayfield housing project is one of nine I’ve approved at this time to improve poor living conditions for some of our most vulnerable citizens.”

The dilapidated units will be demolished and reconstructed on their existing properties. The city will provide homeownership counseling and offer temporary housing for displaced residents during the rehabilitation process.

Kentucky’s U. S. Congressional leaders’ continued support of the CDBG program has made the funding available nationally as well as within the commonwealth.  The state’s CDBG program is managed by GOLD and funded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).  Approved grants are used to assist counties and cities in revitalizing neighborhoods, expanding affordable housing and economic opportunities, providing infrastructure and/or improving community facilities and services.