Monday, September 17, 2018 - 04:00 pm

BISMARCK, N.D. – Gov. Doug Burgum, in partnership with the North Dakota Department of Commerce, has announced an expanded community development program aimed at improving main streets, public facilities and services.

More than $2.3 million in federal funds, provided through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), will be distributed to benefit community and economic development throughout North Dakota. At least $500,000 of the $2.3 million will be utilized to support the North Dakota Main Street Initiative by promoting livable communities, addressing unmet community development needs and promoting activities that enhance local economic development efforts.

“We encourage communities to apply for these funds for projects that will strengthen our state’s economy and help create healthy, vibrant communities that can attract and retain a 21st century workforce,” said Burgum, who first announced the funds Friday at a North Dakota League of Cities conference in Grand Forks.

Funds will be made available to rehabilitate building exteriors or make other exterior improvements. Public facility projects could include the acquisition, construction, reconstruction or installation of public works, facilities or other improvements. Public services funds, in the form of operational costs, will be made available to existing and new agencies that support programs related to addiction and recovery.

For additional information on the Governor’s Fund for Community Development, visit: https://www.communityservices.nd.gov/communitydevelopment.