Attached is a draft 2024 CDBG application. Staff would like to get feedback from council on the application submission for 2024 CDBG funding.
A sidewalk extension from the cul-de-sac end of El Monte east to Delmar Street is the only eligible project staff has been able to identify that meets all of the CDBG parameters. This sidewalk extension is not reflected on the City's bike and sidewalk master plan. It was likely not contemplated since it does not follow an existing street. The extension does make sense as it provides for a direct route for children living on El Monte to Roesland Elementary. The project would also improve drainage of storm water that accumulates in the El Monte cul-de-sac. The project is not shown in the City CIP at this time and does not have a funding source.
A City is limited to $200,000 of CDBG funds per two-year period, if for example $200,000 was awarded for 2023, the City could not apply for funds in 2024. The City was awarded $151k in CDBG funds for the Elledge project in 2022, so we can apply for $200k in 2023.
Identifying projects that meet all of the CDBG award criteria and is over $200k in cost is challenging. CDBG will not allow for reimbursement of expenses incurred prior to the award of CDBG funds and the project is to be completed by 12/1/24. This requires the project to be fairly simple, requiring a short engineering time and construction period. Not to mention that the federal government does not award the funds timely, therefore the project schedule must be flexible.
The El Monte to Delmar sidewalk extension is small enough that design and construction can be completed within the constrained CDBG project period. Council has discussed the project previously; design would need to be completed and easements secured from 4 adjoining property owners.
A final restriction on selecting CDBG eligible projects is that the project must occur inside of a block group which has at least 43.06% of the residents served by the project meeting the "low to moderate income" (LMI) measure set forth by CDBG. This criterion makes identifying a qualified project even more challenging. Per the attached map showing Census Tract Block Group boundaries and LMI population percentages Roeland Park now only has one block group that meets or exceeds the 43.46% threshold (Census Tract 501, Block Group 1). El Monte and Delmar lie within this Block Group.
All of the factors noted above are considered as we looked for CDBG application prospects. We have secured CDBG funding for 4 street projects in the past 7 funding rounds.
An application for CDBG funding of the parking/storm drainage/ADA improvements at the Community Center was submitted for 2021 funding, the City did not receive an award. We also applied for 2023 CDBG funding to support Phase 1 improvements at the Community Center, the City did not receive an award.
The Public Hearing required as part of the CDBG project consideration process is an opportunity to receive community input on the application, answer questions, and discuss. This is a step which must be completed prior to submitting an application. A public hearing is set for the first council meeting in May. |