Resolution No. 4834 Exhibit - Laserfiche WebLink

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on the west, excluding the residential areas on the south side of B Street between 8th and 10th Streets, and on the north side of A Street between 9th and 10th Streets. This designation was approved by HUD on February 12, 2004. By designating a redevelopment area in the downtown commercial district, the City of Springfield can allocate CDBG funds for activities that will help to stop the ongoing decay of the area, stimulate commercial growth and stability, and encourage pedestrian traffic. The installation of new street lighting in the downtown area to enhance the pedestrian environment and public safety is an example of a project that can be implemented under this section. Vertical Housing Development Zone On July 26, 2004, the Springfield City Council authorized an application to the State of Oregon Economic and Community Development Department (©ECDD) for the creation of a Vertical Housing Development Zone (VHDZ). The purpose of a VHDZ is to encourage multi-story housing in a commercial district by offering property tax exemptions to qualified projects. The projects must consist of commercial space at street level with at least one story of housing above the commercial space. The City submitted its VHDZ application with all necessary documentation to the ©ECDD on September 20, 2004, followed by a final statement of conformance on October 7, 2004. The City of Springfield received its Designation of VHDZ from ©ECDD on October 12, 2004. The boundaries of the VHDZ are the same as the boundaries for the Downtown Redevelopment Area described above. The VHDZ program is not an affordable housing program, and is not tied programmatically to either CDBG or HOME, although these funds may be used to assist a VHDZ project that also meets CDBG and/or HOME requirements. Community Development in Springfield Neighborhoods Looking beyond downtown, Springfield has used CDBG funds to make improvements to its neighborhoods. CDBG funds may only be used for neighborhood improvements when the area served by the improvements is comprised of at least 51.0% of Iow- moderate income residents. Street improvement projects, the installation of sidewalks, playground, and park improvements, and community facilities have all been part of Springfield's investment in its neighborhoods. All CDBG-funded street improvement projects are initiated by residents petitioning the City. Development Services and Public Works staff hold meetings and neighborhood forums with interested parties to discuss the project scope, impact, and costs. CDBG funds help pay for the costs assessed to each property owner on the street identified for improvement. Street improvements made in the West Centennial and East Kelly Butte neighborhoods are two examples of projects that have had positive impacts on public safety and neighborhood pride. These projects have stimulated property and landscape improvements among the residents, and an overall increase in neighborhood pride. CDBG also provides partial funding for a nuisance code enforcement officer, who helps to maintain the physical attractiveness and livability of Springfield's neighborhoods by alerting property owners of potential safety and nuisance violations. 75