Today, the DC Housing Authority announced it had received a total of $34.4 million in competitive grants spooned from the honey pot that is the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (AARA) of 2009. All of this money must be spent within three years, which leaves little room for dilly-dallying!

The money will be disseminated to projects across the city:

• Capper Carrollsburg HOPE VI near Nationals Park in Southeast.
• Mathews Memorial and Sheridan Terrace HOPE VI near Barry Farm in Southeast.
• Highland Dwellings in Washington Highlands.
• Scattered sites in Ward 1.
• Kentucky Courts Park and Garden by Lincoln Park on Capitol Hill.
• The 2905 11th Street Assisted Living Facility in Columbia Heights.

In the spring, DCHA also received a $27 million, non-competitive grant with funds from the Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The grants are administered through the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). More details below about much money each development received:

Read More “DC Housing Authority Awarded $34.4 Million in Stimulus Funds” »

Ever wonder just how much the foreclosure crisis is impacting your neighborhood? Well now, you’ll be able to say “Meh, not so much” or “Holy crap—That explains the $60,000 property value drop!” with definitive authority.

The Department of Housing and Urban Development has created a map, which examines census tracts and provides two “scores” regarding the volume of vacancy properties and foreclosures problems in the area.* Read More “HUD Map Rates Your Neighborhood’s Foreclosure Problem!” »

Shaun Donovan, Obama’s nominee to head the Department of Housing and Urban Development, appeared before the Senate banking committee yesterday. 

Apparently, they were very excited to see him!

“He’s far more qualified than I was,” stated Senator Mel Martinez, who served as President Bush’s first housing secretary, according to the New York Times.

Donovan will not lack for work. Among the faltering policies and programs discussed:

Read More “Senate Warmly Welcomes Shaun Donovan” »