2026-2027 Community Development Block Grant

The City of Walnut Creek is requesting proposals for its FY26-FY27 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. The program is funded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and aims to support the development of viable urban communities by providing affordable housing, a suitable living environment, and expanded economic opportunities, primarily for low- and moderate-income (LMI) residents. Eligible proposals must align with the city's five-year Consolidated Plan, which prioritizes housing rehabilitation, infrastructure/public facilities, and economic development projects. The funding is available to non-profit organizations, public entities, and community-based organizations. For-profit organizations and individuals are not eligible to apply.

The City of Walnut Creek receives an annual CDBG allocation from HUD, which varies based on the federal budget and HUD’s formula. For the FY26 funding cycle, the city is prioritizing projects that assist LMI residents in maintaining or rehabilitating their homes. However, it may also consider applications for other CDBG-eligible activities, such as the construction or rehabilitation of public facilities benefiting LMI residents, removal of barriers for handicapped individuals, job training, small business support, and pollution/blight improvements. Each project must meet HUD’s National Objective of benefiting LMI persons by either providing housing, creating/retaining jobs, offering specific services, or improving an LMI residential area.

The application process follows a structured timeline. The application portal opens on January 31, 2025, and questions must be submitted by February 7, 2025. Responses to questions will be posted by February 14, 2025, and applications are due no later than March 24, 2025, at 5:00 PM. Interviews with top applicants may be conducted around March 19, 2025, and grant award notifications are expected by April 4, 2025, contingent upon City Council authorization. The estimated grant award start date is July 1, 2025.

Eligible proposals will be evaluated based on four primary criteria: (1) community need (45%), (2) program administration capacity (35%), (3) grant administration capacity (20%), and (4) compliance with CDBG regulations. Applications must be submitted through the City Data Services (CDS) portal, and late submissions may not be considered. Required documentation includes a financial audit, verification of registration in SAM.gov, and at least three references for prior experience in the proposed activity. Additionally, applicants must disclose any previous or ongoing contract failures, suspensions, or legal actions.

Award recipients must comply with all applicable federal and local CDBG regulations, including financial reporting, income verification of beneficiaries, and project eligibility requirements. Indirect costs may not exceed 10% of allowable direct costs unless otherwise approved. Ineligible expenses and activities are outlined in 24 CFR 570.207. Successful applicants will be required to sign a CDBG Grant Agreement, maintain liability insurance, and provide proof of worker’s compensation insurance, where applicable.

For more information or assistance with the application, interested parties may contact Allison Rustick, Assistant Housing Planner, at housing@walnut-creek.org. Additional RFP details and submission guidelines are available at https://tinyurl.com/CDBG-Apply. A pre-application meeting can be arranged for new applicants upon request.