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Franklin County Seeks Public Input, Applicants For Community Development Block Grant Program

Planning

May 27, 2025

CHAMBERSBURG, Pa. – The Franklin County Commissioners invite residents, community organizations and municipal representatives to offer feedback on needs related to housing, infrastructure, public services, accessibility and economic development impacting low- to moderate-income residents and areas. Projects related to these needs could qualify for Franklin County’s Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. 

CDBG funding is allocated through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), on behalf of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), to benefit non-entitlement municipalities and community organizations within Franklin County. Chambersburg and Waynesboro boroughs are entitlement municipalities and receive and administer their own CDBG funds for projects within their municipal boundaries. 

At least 70% of CDBG funds received by the county must be used for projects that benefit low- and moderate-income individuals. Projects are required to either prevent or eliminate slum or blight or eliminate an urgent situation that poses a threat to the health and safety of the community. Ideally, projects align with Franklin County’s 10-year comprehensive plan, Imagine Franklin 2035, which serves as the county’s strategic guide for short- and long-term decision making. Approved projects in past grant cycles have included upgrades to public sewer and water systems, improvements to curbs and sidewalks, and acquisition of property to accommodate low- to moderate-income housing. 

Staff from the Franklin County Planning Department will discuss the county’s FY2025 CDBG program and application process during a public hearing at 2 p.m. June 17 at the Franklin County Administration Building, 272 N. Second St., Chambersburg. Residents who are unable to attend the hearing in person can attend virtually by contacting the Planning Department. 

Applications as well as additional information on the CDBG program are available by contacting the Franklin County Planning Department at 717-261-3855 or planning@franklincountypa.gov. Information on the program is also available online at www.franklincountypa.gov/programs. All applications must be received by 4 p.m. July 31. 

Franklin County will hold a final citizen participation meeting in September prior to DCED’s application submission deadline. Information on that hearing will be released once details are finalized.