July 20, 2010

The Portland Development Commission (PDC) has announced the intent to award more than $320,000 in Community Livability Grant funds to projects in the Interstate Corridor Urban Renewal Area (ICURA) for fiscal year 2010-2011.

PDC received 14 requests for project funds after the notification of available funds went out to interested parties in early March. The evaluation committee, composed of community members and staff from PDC and the Bureau of Planning and Sustainability, selected 11 projects to receive full or partial funding. Projects receiving funding this year include a community garden, a music center and an arts center. To view the complete list of fund recipients visit: www.pdc.us/clg

The Community Livability Grant Program, administered by PDC, annually awards funding for projects that involve physical improvements to community facilities, open spaces or historic/cultural preservation. The program invests in facilities and other assets of ICURA neighborhoods that improve livability for residents and enhance the unique nature of these Portland neighborhoods.

Since 2006, PDC has awarded more than $1.1 million to 24 projects in the ICURA to enhance community livability; an investment that has leveraged more than $940,000 in other funds and volunteer labor. Grant awards have ranged from $3,500 to more than $100,000. Projects receiving awards in the past have included:

  • A wheelchair ramp for a community medical center;
  • New shade trees and benches at Humboldt School;
  • A new furnace and energy efficient improvements for a child care center