The city of Ludowici recently received a $500,000 grant through the state’s Community Development Block Grant Program. The award was announced Aug. 19 in a letter from Gov. Nathan Deal, who said Ludowici was one of only 71 communities in Georgia to receive a grant.
In all, $35.8 million was awarded, and the money will fund infrastructure improvements, neighborhood-revitalization projects and specialized centers.
“Strong, vibrant communities help attract companies to the state. The projects funded by this program will ensure successful economic development and enhance the quality of life for all Georgians,” Deal said.
According to the governor, the Community Development Block Grant Program supports projects in small and rural communities that create jobs and assist low- and moderate-income citizens. He said this year’s grants ranged from $181,414 to $800,000, and that all of the receiving communities must complete their projects within two years of procuring their funds.
Ludowici Mayor James Fuller said the money be used to continue improvements to the city’s sewage and water system. He said that several upgrades to the city and water system will be made, and a pump station will be installed on Horne Street.
“We’re happy to be getting this money. Grants are the only way that we can survive and do work like this,” Fuller said.
The mayor said he and the city council constantly are looking for grants that will help the city. Consequently, over the past three years, Ludowici has been awarded approximately $2 million in grants.
“We’ve been able to get around $2 million, and hopefully we can get another $2 million in the future,” Fuller said.