The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program is a flexible federal funding source administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to support housing, infrastructure, and community development needs. Beginning October 1, 2025, Charlotte County will become a designated Urban County, directly receiving CDBG funds and coordinating program delivery with the City of Punta Gorda.
All CDBG-funded activities must meet one of HUD’s three national objectives:
- Benefit low- and moderate-income residents
- Prevent or eliminate slums and blight
- Address urgent threats to community health or safety
Charlotte County will prioritize CDBG investments in the following areas:
- Infrastructure and Public Facilities: Upgrades to drainage, water and sewer lines, sidewalks, street paving, ADA accessibility, and park improvements
- Affordable Housing: Rehabilitation, accessibility modifications, and homeownership assistance for low- and moderate-income households
- Public Services: Programs addressing homelessness, food insecurity, youth and senior services, and behavioral health care (subject to a 15% cap)
- Neighborhood Revitalization: Demolition of unsafe structures, code enforcement, brownfield cleanup, and improvements in blighted areas
- Economic Development and Small Business Support: Assistance to microenterprises and job-creating businesses serving low- and moderate-income residents
- Planning and Administration: Strategic planning, compliance, and oversight to ensure effective program delivery (subject to a 20% cap)
Each funded project must be eligible under federal regulations and align with the County’s goal of building strong, inclusive, and resilient communities.
For more information, contact the Community Development Block Grant Coordinator or visit HUD’s CDBG Program Overview.