North Olmsted has participated in the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program through the Cuyahoga County Department of Development since 1975. The intent of the CDBG program is to provide funding for a wide range of housing and neighborhood improvement activities. Its goals are to encourage decent housing, foster a suitable living environment, and expand economic opportunities principally for persons of low and moderate income.
The City has been successful in obtaining funding through the CDBG Program for a variety of planning and infrastructure improvement projects. In 2009, the City was awarded a $100,000 grant for making Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) improvements to the North Olmsted Senior Center, Community Cabin and North Olmsted Park. The main goal of the project is to remove architectural barriers to the various facilities which will improve the experience for residents and visitors using these facilities, encourage greater participation by seniors and persons with disabilities in programs and activities, and increase community awareness about the importance of accessibility and the requirements of the ADA. In 2008, the City received a $100,000 grant award for the Kennedy Ridge Road reconstruction project, which involved asphalt recycling and resurfacing of the roadway. In 2007, the City received a $30,000 grant award to evaluate all city buildings, facilities, programs and services for compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
In 2006, the City received a grant award of more than $110,000 for accessibility improvements to North Olmsted Park. These improvements consisted of adding two family-friendly restrooms adjacent to the North Olmsted Senior Center, creating a new accessible playground area and installing connecting pathways.
The project selection process is guided by the CDBG Citizens Advisory Committee. Public input regarding potential future projects is encouraged. Contact the Planning Department with your ideas for community development.
Community Development Block Grant – American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009
Cuyahoga County is receiving more than $1 million under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 to carry out, on an expedited basis, eligible activities under the Community Development Block Grant program. As a result, Urban County Communities are being invited to apply for up to $500,000 for infrastructure projects that meet the Recovery Act's purpose of stimulating the economy. The grant application is due July 2, 2009. The City of North Olmsted invites public comment and project suggestions for the CDBG-R application opportunity.