On January 31, 2022, U.S. Rep. John Katko (R,NY-24) introduced the Neighborhood Reinvestment and Revitalization Act.
This bipartisan legislation would provide federal funding to renovate abandoned and distressed properties to revitalize struggling neighborhoods across the country.
Rep. Katko introduced this bipartisan bill alongside U.S. Rep. Cheri Bustos (D,IL-17).
“I am excited to introduce the Neighborhood Reinvestment and Revitalization Act,” said Rep. Katko.
“This bipartisan legislation will authorize $25 million in federal funds for NeighborWorks to renovate or demolish abandoned and foreclosed properties, helping to revitalize neighborhoods in Central New York and across the country. Central New York’s neighborhoods will benefit from safer housing and dedicated funding to help revitalize so-called zombie foreclosures,” he added.
Specifically, the Neighborhood Reinvestment and Revitalization Act would create a new, $25 million competitive grant program within the NeighborWorks America program to fund the demolition and rehabilitation of abandoned or severely distressed properties in areas with high concentrations of such properties.
NeighborWorks supports organizations—like Home HeadQuarters, Inc. in Syracuse, New York—that provide communities with affordable housing, financial counseling and coaching, training and resident engagement and collaboration in the areas of health, employment and education.
“As the City of Syracuse still has a very high rate of vacant and zombie properties, we more than welcome Congressman Katko’s bill supporting the removal or rehabilitation of abandoned properties,” said Kerry Quaglia, CEO of Home HeadQuarters.
“All of us working to keep our local housing infrastructure safe, affordable and in good repair have greatly appreciated Congressman Katko’s understanding of the issues and his dedication, above all else, to our local community and its unique needs,” he concluded.
NeighborWorks America is a congressionally chartered and funded non-partisan non-profit organization with affiliates in every state, D.C. and Puerto Rico.