FY27 CDBG Public Facility and Accessibility Improvement Grants Available

CDBG Public Facility and Accessibility Improvement Grants Available

The Portsmouth Community Development Department is currently accepting applications for the City FY 2027 Public Facility and Accessibility Improvement Grant program. The funding for this program is provided by a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and is contingent on available funding. This is a competitive process for grants generally ranging from $25,000 to $150,000 awarded to non-profit agencies whose facilities primarily provide services to Portsmouth individuals and families who earn very low, low, or moderate incomes and/or whose facilities that serve the public and require the removal of architectural barriers to ADA accessibility. Applicant agencies must have 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status and an active federal Unique Entity Identifier (UEI). Additionally, the facility owner (if it is not the applying agency) must provide their signed approval for submitting an application.

Highest priority for funding awards will be given to CDBG-eligible projects that are shovel-ready and with a completion date by or before February 20, 2027. Projects with completion dates after this date and before April 1, 2027 may also be considered.

Project Regulatory Compliance

• In addition to compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and guidance, projects must also follow procurement processes and documentation required by HUD, including records of quotes solicited and proposals received.
• Projects will be subject to an approved environmental review record. Projects will also be subject to Davis-Bacon and Related Acts requirements, including the incorporation of Davis-Bacon wage rates into cost proposals and the submittal of weekly certified payroll for review and approval by the City.
• Verification of beneficiaries’ income eligibility is required.

Eligible Expenses

Eligible CDBG grant expenses may include soft costs, labor, and materials required for the design and construction of facility improvements. Grant funds may not be used for standard repairs and maintenance or non-fixed equipment purchases, nor may they be used for new housing construction.

Note that funds are limited and interested agencies are encouraged to apply early.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until December 18, 2026.

To request an application or obtain more information, please email Kay Wright, Community Development Coordinator at knwright@portsmouthnh.gov.