Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program

The El Paso County Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program is a federally funded initiative administered by El Paso County in Colorado under the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Since becoming an “entitlement community” in 2009, El Paso County has used CDBG funds to support a wide range of community development projects aimed at revitalizing neighborhoods, promoting economic development, and improving local facilities and services. The program specifically targets areas of El Paso County located outside the city limits of Colorado Springs and prioritizes services for low-to-moderate income (LMI) residents. CDBG funds are allocated annually based on a planning and performance framework established by El Paso County in coordination with HUD. The annual plan integrates input from nonprofit and service organizations and is aligned with the County’s Consolidated Plan for 2022–2026. This plan emphasizes three primary goals: providing decent affordable housing, establishing and maintaining suitable living environments, and expanding economic opportunities for residents. Eligible project categories include public services, public facilities, public infrastructure, housing, and economic development. The 2026 CDBG application cycle will be open from January 2 through February 2, 2026. All first-time applicants are required to attend an orientation session before applying. Projects must meet HUD’s national objectives and align with the County’s consolidated plan goals. Eligible applicants include municipalities, nonprofit organizations, microenterprises, faith-based organizations, and institutions of higher education. All projects must serve LMI clientele living in El Paso County outside Colorado Springs, in communities such as Calhan, Fountain, Green Mountain Falls, Manitou Springs, Monument, Palmer Lake, Ramah, and unincorporated areas. The application process involves submitting a detailed proposal via email during the open cycle. Required components include organizational and project overviews, funding justification, quantifiable outcomes, budgets showing leveraged funds, documentation of client eligibility, and numerous supporting documents such as IRS status, board lists, financials, and maps. Public service projects must detail services provided and cost-per-client metrics, while public facility or infrastructure projects must include operational plans and facility management strategies post-implementation. Each year, the Community Development Advisory Board (CDAB), comprising representatives from municipalities and county districts, reviews applications and makes funding recommendations. These recommendations must be approved by the El Paso County Board of Commissioners and HUD before funds are awarded. Subrecipients are required to attend a training session and sign a legally binding agreement before commencing CDBG-related activities. Project expenditures typically begin in October following HUD disbursement. Overall, the CDBG program serves as a vital funding source for addressing housing access, infrastructure improvements, economic development, and services for vulnerable populations in unincorporated and underserved parts of El Paso County. It emphasizes accountability, regulatory compliance, and measurable impact on low- to moderate-income residents.