CDBG Bus Tour Takes Columbus Residents on a Ride Through Revitalization

By Janell Williams

Columbus residents got a firsthand look at how federal dollars are improving their city during a CDBG Bus Tour, part of National Community Development Week, on April 24.

The tour departed from the River Center Parking Garage at 11 a.m. and took participants to several key sites funded through the Community Development Block Grant program. Organized by the city’s Community Reinvestment Division, the event aimed to show residents where and how public investment is making an impact.

“I’m amazed to see the programs and the activities going on in the city because I had no idea they had reached this magnitude,” said Sabrina Leonard, a participant on the tour. “For my child to see what's happening in our city and have access to fresh, healthy food is a blessing.”

Tour stops included:

• The Boys & Girls Club North Center, where CDBG funding expanded youth programs;
• The Food Mill Shared Kitchen, a hub for local food entrepreneurs;
• Sidewalk upgrades on 1st Avenue to improve pedestrian safety;
• Miles Crossing, an in-progress low-income apartment complex;
• A revitalized Rigdon Park, now equipped with enhanced facilities for families and youth.

At each location, city officials and project leaders explained how CDBG funds had been used and the goals behind each initiative.

“We're excited because now more people can know about the work we're doing to impact the quality of life for low-income citizens. It’s about empowering people and strengthening communities,” said Rob Scott, director of the city’s Community Reinvestment Division.

Funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the CDBG program supports projects that benefit low- to moderate-income communities. In Columbus, officials said the program has helped address longstanding infrastructure challenges and spurred small business growth.

“Next up, we're partnering with the Department of Recreation to build a new park,” Scott said. “It's exciting, and we will share more about the upcoming vision workshop very soon.”

Residents interested in learning more or getting involved in future projects can visit their website, or view some highlights from the tour here.